When it comes to lengthening and shortening the canter, this simple exercise is a must-try
Speak to any event rider about how to improve canter adjustability and, more often than not, they’ll recommend this polework exercise – but it’s not just useful for competitors.
When you’re schooling at home, this simple two-pole setup takes the guesswork out of lengthening and shortening the canter stride. It will reveal much about your horse’s strength, as well as just how effective your aids are, all while you’re working on improving the canter.
For young horses, it offers a framework for learning to shorten – establish the aids and mechanics here to set him up for dressage movements, variations within the pace (such as extended canter and collected canter) and course riding.
Aims
improve canter adjustability
refine the rider’s aids
engage the hindleg
The setup
You need: two poles placed on the three-quarter line – it doesn’t matter about the distance between them
No need to stride out the pole distance – that’s for your horse to work out.
(Image credit: creditUnknown)
How to ride the exercise
Once warmed up, approach the poles in an active, rhythmic working canter. Aim for the middle and to maintain the rhythm without interfering too much. Your horse should look and adjust to meet the poles in the middle of the stride.
Repeat, noting how many strides your horse fits comfortably and consistently down the line without interference.
Now, still your seat over the first pole and make the shortening adjustments needed to fit an extra stride.
Re-establish the working canter pace. Then ride forward over the first pole and open the canter to travel down the line in one stride fewer.
Repeat, varying the number of strides you aim for each time.
Things to note
1. Don’t panic about half strides…
… or if your horse breaks into trot. This only means your horse is finding it tricky to engage the hind leg to shorten or maintain the power for a longer stride. Practice will improve his ability and interpretation of your aids.
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2. The exercise doesn’t end with the second pole
Be mindful of your approach and getaway; you should still aim for a straight line and a quality corner. Furthermore, ensure the canter retains its quality, balance and control away from the second pole, and that your horse doesn’t lose momentum or get too onward bound.
3. Take breaks
Your horse may get tired, and some may become excited as they anticipate what’s to come. Take care to walk your horse if he’s blowing, or spend a couple of minutes working on something else if he lights up. It can help to give young or sharper horses a shorter approach to the poles. As ever, match the length and intensity of a schooling session to your horse’s age, fitness and ability level.
A horse owner and rider with more than 20 years experience, Bethany has been writing for equestrian publications since 2017. Over the course of her career, she has reported from major British Riding Clubs and British Dressage championships, covered Badminton Horse Trials and interviewed equestrian sport’s best athletes. Her work can also be found in Country Life, The Field and Breathe magazine.
