Flatwork / Dressage
Beginner
20 min
Tear-Drop Circle at the Trot
Focus: Accuracy, Bend, Straightness
Equipment: 2 cones or markers
Step-by-Step Instructions
- A tear-drop shape combines a straight line with a half-circle. Start at A or C, ride straight toward X.
- At X, begin a 10-meter half-circle turning either left or right.
- Complete the half-circle so you are now facing back the way you came, aligned with the center line.
- Ride straight back down the center line to your starting letter.
- The key is the transition from straight to curved: your horse should accept the bend smoothly without resistance.
- Repeat the tear-drop 3 times in each direction, improving the accuracy of your turns each time.
- Progress by performing the tear-drop at the trot, maintaining rhythm through the shape change.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Starting the half-circle too early or too late, missing the X centerpoint.
- Losing straightness on the center line portions.
- The horse bulging through the outside shoulder on the curved portion.
- Rushing through the shape instead of maintaining a steady tempo.
Variations & Progressions
- Ride the tear-drop at the canter, using a downward transition for the half-circle.
- Make the half-circle portion smaller (8 meters) for more collection demand.
- Chain two tear-drops together: one left, one right, creating a continuous flowing pattern.
Tip: The tear-drop is excellent for test preparation since many dressage tests require riding to X and turning.
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