Flatwork / Dressage Beginner 20 min

Figure-Eight Circles

Focus: Accuracy, Bend, Transitions

Equipment: 4 cones or markers

Set up a figure-eight using two 20-meter circles that meet at X. Place cones at the outer edges of each circle for reference.
Begin at the walk on the first circle. Ride one complete circle with proper bend.
As you cross through X, straighten your horse for 2-3 strides, then establish the new bend for the second circle.
Walk the entire figure-eight twice, focusing on the smooth change of bend through X.
Progress to the trot. The change of bend becomes more challenging at speed. Allow 3-4 strides of straightness at X.
Repeat the figure-eight 3-4 times at the trot. Each pass should improve the smoothness of your direction changes.

Rushing the change of bend at X instead of allowing straight strides in between.
Making one circle larger than the other, creating a lopsided figure-eight.
The horse anticipating the direction change and cutting corners through X.
Losing rhythm at the crossover point where you change the bend.

Ride the figure-eight at the canter with simple changes through trot or walk at X.
Use 15-meter circles instead of 20 for increased difficulty.
Add a halt at X between each circle to practice transitions and straightness.

Tip: The quality of your figure-eight depends on the quality of your straight strides at X. Don't rush the changeover.