Three-Loop Sitting Trot Serpentine with Simple Changes
Focus: Accuracy, Transitions, Collection
Equipment: 6 cones or markers
Arena Diagram
Step-by-Step Instructions
Set up a three-loop serpentine with cones marking the center line crossings.
Begin at the sitting trot on the correct lead for the first loop.
As you cross the center line, transition to sitting sitting trot for 3-4 steps, then pick up the new lead for the second loop.
The simple change should happen exactly at the center line, not before or after.
Continue through all three loops, performing a simple change at each center line crossing.
Maintain the same loop size and shape throughout. Each loop should touch the long side.
Repeat the serpentine 2-3 times, then sitting sitting trot and stretch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The simple changes drifting away from the center line crossing point.
Loops becoming uneven because the rider focuses on the changes and forgets the geometry.
The horse becoming tense and anticipating the downward transitions.
Walk steps increasing as the exercise progresses because of fatigue.
Variations & Progressions
Use flying changes instead of simple changes for upper-level work.
Increase to four or five loops for a longer, more demanding exercise.
Add counter-canter through the loops instead of simple changes for balance training.
Tip: Master the three-loop trot serpentine before attempting this. The canter version adds the complexity of lead changes to an already demanding pattern.
