Build his balance
This simple grid builds on the first exercise, helping to further develop the canter rhythm, as well as improving your horse’s balance.
Set it up
You now need to build this simple grid (see diagram below). Start with the jump as an upright, but you’ll need a spare pole to alter the grid later on.
How to ride it
Ride this exercise in canter and, to make sure you meet the first pole in the right place, make sure to look at the pole early and keep looking at it on your approach. If you feel you’re not going meet the pole in the middle of a canter stride, circle away and start your approach again.
Step 1
As you canter down the long side of the schooling area, look across and focus on the first pole of the grid. Doing this will help you make a good turn to your grid.
Step 2
To help you maintain a consistent canter rhythm as you’re approaching the first pole, count from one to 20, then start again from one. Doing this encourages you to breathe properly and also to relax, plus you’ll find that your horse’s rhythm begins to improve, too.
Step 3
Make sure your horse stays straight and you’re riding to the middle of your grid.
Step 4
If your canter is good enough, your horse will pop through the grid easily without his rhythm altering, which is exactly what you’re aiming to achieve.
Step 5
Make sure to sit up on landing, riding straight away from the grid for a few strides, before turning and coming round and through the grid again.