Three Exercises on a Circle to Help You See a Distance

Finding a distance can be a challenge, but these three exercises from upper-level eventer Lillian Heard Wood can help you.

Judging the right distance to a fence—the horse’s takeoff spot—is no easy task. In the course of training with and observing various coaches, I realized I could achieve better accuracy by practicing a variety of exercises. I’ve used these exercises to help myself as well as amateurs and young riders tackle this challenge.

Exercise 1: Canter a Ground Pole on a Circle

One way to strengthen your eye is by cantering a ground pole on a circle. This gives you more opportunities to adjust your horse than if you simply ride over a pole on a straight line. You can do this every week whether you’re jumping or riding dressage, and it’s very easy on your horse’s legs.