Jumping Intermediate 20 min

Canter Poles in a Straight Line

Focus: Rhythm, Balance, Technique

Equipment: 4 ground poles

Set up 4 ground poles in a straight line, spaced 4.5 feet apart (one normal canter stride).
Approach at the posting canter on a straight line. Look ahead past the poles, not down at them.
Allow the horse to find its rhythm over the poles. Keep a steady contact but don't interfere.
The horse should canter through without speeding up, slowing down, or jumping the poles.
After the poles, continue canterting in a straight line for 6-8 strides before turning.
Repeat 4-6 times from each direction. The horse should become more confident with each pass.

Looking down at the poles instead of ahead, which drops the horse onto the forehand.
Pulling on the reins as the horse approaches, causing it to shorten its stride and hit the poles.
Letting the horse rush through the poles — maintain the same trot tempo before, during, and after.
Leaning forward over the poles, getting ahead of the horse's motion.

Increase to 6 poles for a longer exercise.
Raise alternate poles on one end (1-2 inches) to encourage the horse to lift its legs higher.
Fan the poles on a curve to practice trot poles on a bending line.

Tip: Let the horse figure out the poles. Your job is to maintain rhythm and direction. The horse will learn to adjust its stride.