Flatwork / Dressage
Intermediate
20 min
Volte at the Trot
Focus: Collection, Bend, Engagement
Equipment: 2 cones or markers
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Set up two cones 8 meters apart. You will ride a volte (small circle) using these as diameter points.
- Pick up a sitting trot. The sitting trot gives you better control of the horse's body on a tight circle.
- Begin the volte, keeping your inside leg firmly at the girth to create and maintain bend. Your outside leg guards the haunches.
- Half-halt with the outside rein every quarter of the circle to prevent the horse from falling onto the inside shoulder.
- Ride 3 voltes, then straighten out for 10-12 strides on the long side. This gives the horse a mental and physical break.
- Return to the volte. On this second set, focus on keeping the hind legs stepping actively under the body.
- Change direction and repeat. Keep sessions short since volte work is physically demanding.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- The horse falling onto the inside shoulder and leaning through the turn.
- Sitting too heavily on one seat bone, throwing the horse off balance.
- The volte becoming egg-shaped because the horse drifts at one point.
- Keeping the horse on the volte too long, causing fatigue and resistance.
Variations & Progressions
- Ride the volte at the canter (advanced) — this requires significant collection.
- Chain voltes down the long side: volte at E, straight 5 strides, volte at B.
- Exit the volte into shoulder-in for a seamless lateral movement transition.
Tip: If your horse braces against the bend, ride one large circle first to establish the bend, then gradually decrease the size.
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