Lessons In TR

Here are 4 new obstacle course patterns that I have seen used at our barn lately.

Obstacle Course Patterns

#1

#2

#3

#4

(The yellow star marks a convenient place to stand so you can always see everyone.)

Bonus: Example Lesson Plan!

Lesson Plan for Pattern #4: Direct and Indirect Rein Steering

1. Safety Check
2. Mount
   1. Rider 1 – croup on lift, mod assist, ride without stirrups to stretch legs while other rider mounts
   2. Rider 2 – croup on lift, min assist
3. Safety check
4. Warmups
   1. Backwards arm circles 10x at walk to open up chest and warm up arms and shoulders for posture and steering
   2. Trunk twists 10x at walk to warm up back and balance for steering
   3. 2 point at halt 10 seconds to stretch calves
5. Riding Skill
   1. What – steering, Rider 1 focusing on direct rein, Rider 2 focusing on outside rein
   2. Why – more precise steering, Inside rein sets direction, Outside rein helps the horse bring their outside shoulder with them through the turn
   3. How – Direct rein pull back to hip pocket, Outside rein keep in contact and place toward neck
   4. Where – weaving cones
6. Safety Check
7. Practice
   1. weave the 5 cones 2x both directions, unclip as soon as possible to Leaders spot
8. Progression
   1. whole obstacle course 2x depending on time, as little assistance as possible
9. Wrap up
10. Dismount
    1. Rider 2 – croup, ground
    2. Rider 1 – lift

Enjoy!

****************

Note: This is not professional advice, this is a blog. I am not liable for what you do with or how you use this information. The activities explained in this blog may not be fit for every rider, riding instructor, or riding center depending on their current condition and resources. Use your best personal judgment!