Friday, December 19, 2008

Patterns 1 & 2

Reverse them so that you can complete each movement easily tracking both ways. I set them up beginning to track left, but if that is all you do, your horse will become one-sided. Exercise each pattern in both directions for the full result.

Also, do not abandon your position while completing these patterns. They are simple. They are designed to make you think about everything at once, and keep your horse responsive the whole way. Don't jeopardize any movement either just to complete the pattern. If you just can't get your horse to do a nice turn on the forehand, skip it! Make a half-circle back instead and continue the pattern. Afterward, spend 5-10 minutes on turning on the forehand, and then move on. Focusing on one movement and drilling your horse with it will only make you frustrated. Your horse will resent it.

Also, I would recommend doing each pattern once or twice, three times at the most in one day. Your horse will get bored. Practice it one time through, and make it a practice round to remind your horse to listen to you, and your second round will be more show-like. Remember that even in the practice round, you are trying to make it effective, so make every motion count. Be aware of your horse, don't sit tight or loose and toodle around.

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