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Full 4-loop Double serpentine pattern, 2

Training idea # 10: Double serpentine exercises

In November, I published my Simple Serpentine Exercises post. As of this writing, it’s had nearly 5,000 views, so I think it’s time to share… Read More »Training idea # 10: Double serpentine exercises

Training idea #9: The bow-tie warm-up exercise, with variations

I owe this one to Pamela Byers, the riding instructor who taught my sons at Gallery Farm when we were in Oklahoma. Pamela had all… Read More »Training idea #9: The bow-tie warm-up exercise, with variations

Training idea #8: Simple serpentine exercises

Simple serpentine exercises appear in traditional dressage (e.g., Second Level Test 2), Cowboy Dressage, Western Dressage, and equitation patterns in all disciplines. I use them… Read More »Training idea #8: Simple serpentine exercises

Spiral exercises to do at the lope

Training idea # 7: Spiral exercises to do at the lope, canter, jog, or trot

I use spirals all the time when I’m doing arena work. I sometimes even do them on the trail, or before an endurance ride, to… Read More »Training idea # 7: Spiral exercises to do at the lope, canter, jog, or trot

Windy Fire (endurance training while the rest of life is happening)

Endurance training while the Rest of Life is Happening: Road to Tevis # 54

This Saturday (October 2) Fantazia and I are going to do the 50 at the Quicksilver Fall Classic. It will be our first ride since… Read More »Endurance training while the Rest of Life is Happening: Road to Tevis # 54

Training idea # 6: Warm-up exercise for trotting and loping/cantering

A description of my warm-up exercise for trotting and loping/cantering, with diagrams and videos. I also use it for conditioning in the arena.

four spiral exercises to do at the walk

Training idea # 5: Four spiral exercises to do at the walk

Four spiral exercises to do at the walk, with videos.

conditioning in the heat

Conditioning in the Heat: Road to the Tevis Cup # 50

Conditioning in the heat can become problematic in a drought!

clover leaf exercise for a round arena

Training idea # 4: Clover-leaf exercise for a round arena

The clover leaf exercise is a simple pattern in wihch you ride the horse in four connected loops shaped like a four-leaf clover. It improves… Read More »Training idea # 4: Clover-leaf exercise for a round arena

Road to the Tevis Cup #33: The two weeks leading up to our second ride

A brief description of the final two weeks leading up to our second ride. The timing and exertion of each ride has to be carefully thought out. Eating has to happen!