3  VERSATILITY

This layout is called the versatile one for good reason. There are numerous lines to ride in all three paces and it works on a lot, including bend, straightness, transitions and elevation, plus quickening a horse’s response time to the aids. It also adds interest and variety to their work.

■ How to ride it

Set up the layout as shown in the diagram (right). Start with the poles for the box in the middle (at X) and then position the other poles. When you build the triangle, stand inside it on foot and look towards the poles on both diagonal lines to make sure the line you’ve created is achievable.

Ride in walk straight down the centre line, through the triangle and halting inside the box. Change the rein and repeat.

Next trot the same line, transitioning to walk just before the box and halting inside. Then trot on again. These transitions ensure your horse stays focused on you.

Now walk through the triangle and turn left, riding through the poles on the diagonal and continuing on a semi-circle over the three sets of two canter poles (a/b/c on diagram). Repeat, this time turning right in the triangle.

Give your horse a break on a long rein. Then pick up trot and ride a circle at the other end of the arena (opposite end to the triangle), over the canter poles and through the box. Do this on both reins before repeating in canter.

■ Next steps

Trot through the triangle and turn left. Trot over the diagonal poles and make a transition to canter over the third pole.

Continue in canter and ride a 20m circle over all canter poles and through the box. You can remove this circle later to make the poles and transitions that follow happen more quickly.

Continue large around the arena (bypassing the diagonal poles) and return to trot. Repeat the exercise, this time turning right out of the triangle.

To finish, instead of riding large ask for a trot transition over the last canter pole and continue over the diagonal poles. You can then turn out of the triangle or repeat the exercise.

Advance the exercise by raising the diagonal poles, and then the canter poles.

■ Why it works

This layout will flow if your line is accurate and you maintain a rhythmical, balanced pace. There is a lot for both horse and rider to think about and it tests how well you communicate with and organise your horse in time for each turn or transition change. It highlights how much control you have and how good your steering is, all the time looking ahead to the next pole.

It also shows how well your horse is focusing, listening and responding. Encourage him to relax and stretch down and forwards with his neck to help build muscle and strength through his body.