covid challenge #4

1- 10 minute walk on long rein
2- Trot and canter warm up with light contact.
3- Flat exercise: - 3 loop Canter Serpentines with simple changes. I have attached a photo of the 3 loop serpentine pattern. When cantering a serpentine with simple changes, the focus is basically a canter trot canter transition between the change of bends. We want a good balanced transition. It is not just about getting the trot and then getting the canter. We are looking for obedience and suppleness. Each canter depart should use the same consistent aids. Your inside leg stays at the girth and will be the aid that sends the horse forward, the outside leg comes slightly back and encourages him to step under with his outside (push off leg). Consider your rein aids and be sure that you have an even steady contact. Be sure to maintain the leg position while you are in the canter. Before you trot, you want your canter to be a good even quality canter, even if you have to circle within the serpentine to achieve it and then continue when ready. Remember break down the patterns as needed and then put them together. Then you need a canter to trot transition for the simple change. Right before the transition you need to send the horse forward into the had a bit to get them to come under and lighten the shoulders. Prepare with a half halt and then you will need to sit up tall and stop your seat from following by engaging the core and bracing your lower back just a tiny bit for the transition down and then relax and follow into the trot and then repeat the upward into the canter. I have attached a video of canter to trot transition. She completely uses her seat for the transition and you can really see her do it. I thought it would be helpful.
4- Repeat your pattern again and fix anything that needs it.
5-Jump exercise: I will set up a simple line of two cross rails tomorrow morning. Canter the line both directions. You will want to be able to do the line in a nice normal to forward 5 and also in a regular to short 6.
6- 3 minute long trot. This trot is part of the work, not a vacation. I have noticed a couple people just letting there horses on the buckle and doing whatever trot they feel like. This trot is developing a top line for you. It must be with contact, yes the rein can be longer to allow stretch but must have contact and the horse should be very active behind.
7- Finish with walk around yard.