Lightning bolt

POLEWORK VARIATIONS

L I G H BOLT N I N G

This super simple layout involves just four poles but can be ridden in numerous ways. The exercises can be done in-hand, or ridden at walk, trot and canter.

BENEFITS

• Improves accuracy • Helps to increase inside bend and flexion, improving overall suppleness • Increasing hindquarter engagement

VARIATIONS

You can ride this layout in a variety of different ways (as seen here). The great thing about this is that your horse must pay attention to your instructions rather than anticipating the next step.

As always, the goal is to keep your shapes accurate and symmetrical and ensure your horse is picking up his feet over the poles.

With time you can raise some of the poles onto Rotovettis, but you should keep all poles on the ground until your horse has mastered the exercise.