Groundwork
Beginner
10 min
Figure-Eight Leading Pattern at the Walk
Focus: Accuracy, Communication, Bend
Equipment: 2 cones or markers, Halter and leadrope
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Set up 2 cones about 20 feet apart. You will lead the horse in a figure-eight around them.
- Start at the left cone. Lead the horse around it to the left in a smooth circle.
- At the midpoint between cones, change your lead hand and walk the horse around the right cone to the right.
- The figure-eight tests your ability to change sides and the horse's willingness to follow your direction.
- Practice until the figure-eight feels smooth with no hesitation at the changeover.
- The horse should bend its body around each cone, not walk in a straight line between them.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- The horse cutting the turns instead of walking around the cones.
- Not switching lead hands at the changeover, causing awkward rope management.
- Walking too fast, so the horse is dragged rather than led.
- The figure-eight becoming a straight line with sharp turns at the cones.
Variations & Progressions
- Trot the figure-eight for increased difficulty.
- Decrease the cone distance to 10 feet for tighter turns.
- Add ground poles between the cones for an obstacle element.
Tip: The figure-eight is the simplest leading pattern that tests both direction changes and the horse's willingness to follow your body.
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