Flatwork / Dressage
Beginner
10 min
S-Curve Through Cones at the Walk
Focus: Suppleness, Bend, Accuracy
Equipment: 6 cones or markers
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Set up 6 cones in a straight line down the center of the arena, spaced about 10 meters apart.
- Starting at the first cone, weave through the line in an S-curve pattern, passing each cone on alternating sides.
- At the walk, focus on smooth changes of bend as you curve around each cone.
- Your inside leg pushes the horse around each cone. Your outside leg supports and prevents the haunches from swinging.
- Progress to the walk once the walk feels smooth. The S-curve becomes more challenging at speed.
- Repeat the weave 3-4 times in each direction.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cutting too close to the cones and knocking them over.
- Making sharp turns instead of smooth, flowing S-curves.
- Not establishing the new bend early enough, resulting in flat spots between curves.
- The horse rushing through the pattern instead of maintaining a steady tempo.
Variations & Progressions
- Move the cones closer together (8 meters) for tighter turns.
- Ride the S-curve at the canter for advanced suppleness work.
- Add a halt at every other cone for transition practice within the pattern.
Tip: Think of your horse as a river flowing between rocks. The path should be smooth and continuous, not jagged.
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