Today's secret is about one obstacle where people often forget to plan ahead to set their horse up for success.
On your approach to the Pen you need to Plan ahead for:
- your approach line so you can have the correct bend before you enter.
- where and in which direction you'll make the change of direction so only one bend change is needed.
- which direction you will do your last circle so it sets you up to flow to the next obstacle.
In the Working Equitation Mastery Online Program I explain my reasoning behind the choices I make from the list above. I can give you one little secret today that can make a big difference to your flow.
You do NOT have to enter and exit the Pen straight.
Yes, that would show increased difficulty and potentially be able to score higher.
However, riders seem to be under the impression that they are 'required' to enter and exit the Pen, perpendicular to the opening. You are not.
What is required is that you present your horse, both to the obstacle, and to the judge, in a way that shows the best that your horse is capable of, that day.
If you can
- enter and exit straight (ie. perpendicular to the opening), which is the most difficult
- and your horse is supple enough to enter on the correct bend/lead for the upcoming circle
- and shows no resistance or change of tempo
Go for it.
But it is very rare that any but the highest level horses can do this well.
In this video clip the course was set up for a straight approach to the Pen.
However, the horse should be on the correct bend when entering.
Although it was a lovely bend change, points would be lost for not entering with the correct bend.
And as the horse moves up the levels, the correct lead.
Most lower level riders do not have such a nice change of bend and have a lot of resistance.
It is better to not have resistance.
But if you're going to, then have it on your approach to the Pen, not in the Pen.
To help your horse not have resistance, sign up today for the Free Secret to Making Obstacles Flow
You CAN learn how to improve your horse's skills from online courses and tips such as these.
But only if you implement.
So when you read my articles write down the steps as a reminder for what you're going to try in your next ride.
Take them to the barn and try them out.
Come on back when you're done and let me know how it went.