5 Pole Training Exercise

This article is from the August 2020 Horse Deals magazine.

Following on from our four pole training exercises, we present to you a five pole version. Get your horse’s brain switched on and ride straighter lines with these versatile layouts.

These require minimal set-up and can be catered to any level horse by changing the pace; start at the walk for youngsters and work towards trot and canter.

Distancing of poles varies depending on the size and stride length of your horse, but a general rule is:

Trot Poles = 4 to 4.5 heel to toe steps apart

Canter Poles = 3 to 3.5 human strides apart

Take on the TRANSITION CHALLENGE

This exercise can be ridden either way, practising upwards or downwards transitions. It helps to improve accuracy on the more experienced horse. Aim for a smooth transition and relaxation of gait.

Exercises courtesy of Davina Barber

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