HORSE AND RIDER
FARRYN DAY Facebook: @SmicEquestrian Instagram: @smic_equestrian @smicfarryn @citypoloatinanda
TEXT: FARRYN DAY
CANTER CIRCLES AN EXERCISE
T
his is a wonderful exercise that can be adapted to suit most horses. It helps to develop rhythm and balance and a disciplined approach to working in a confined space. Normally ridden in a canter, the exercise can be performed at a trot for very young horses that have not yet established their canter or those who are unfit or physically unable to perform the circles correctly at a canter.
even games horses. This exercise should, over time, improve your horse’s ability to lengthen and shorten as required. In short, it will make him more adjustable. • Generally, a novice horse should be able to work around three to four poles, the intermediate horse around two to three poles, and the more advanced horse circles around one or two poles.
PRINCIPLES OF THE EXERCISE • Aim to maintain the rhythm throughout the circles, and only move on to a smaller circle once you and your horse are ready and able to do so. Remember that the smaller the circle, the more collection is required to keep balanced. • Developing a well-balanced collected canter through these exercises will help build the hindquarter, allowing the horse to become lighter on the forehand. • Seamless lengthening and shortening, as practised as the precursor to this exercise, is vital not only for showjumpers but for dressage horses, polo ponies and
TO RIDE THE EXERCISE • To set up, place six poles 3 metres apart down the centre line of the arena. • After finishing your trot warm-up, canter around all six poles maintaining rhythm and balance. For young or lessexperienced horses, continue the exercise at the trot, rather than attempting canter. • Include some lengthening and shortening of the canter around the six poles to help your horse to be adjustable on the smaller circles. Note: Lengthening and shortening refer to the length of the stride, not the speed. • Then to start the exercise, circle around the middle four
46
HQ|156C
