Flatwork exercises
Flatwork exercises for horses can be ridden by riders of all levels – there are exercises for the complete beginner as well as plenty for the advanced equestrian.
Flatwork is essential for every ridden horse as it’s the foundation for every discipline. It refers to any ridden work without poles or fences, and for the more advanced rider will often include lateral work.
If you need some inspiration for flatwork exercises to try at home, check out the examples from top riders and trainers below.
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Teach your horse to canter on the correct lead – and improve the transition – with this leg-yield exerciseBy Bethany Stone Published
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Develop your horse’s extended canter with this simple exercise on a 20m circleBy Martha Terry Published
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Develop the quality and rhythm of your lengthened trot strides with this back-loosening, hindleg-engaging drillBy Martha Terry Published
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Boost the length and power of your horse’s medium trot with this helpful exerciseBy Martha Terry Published
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Develop your horse’s straightness in canter with the help of this shallow loops exerciseBy Martha Terry Published
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Transform your 20m circles into a productive schooling exercise for increased suppleness and focusBy Martha Terry Published
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Master your corners with this simple walk transition exercise to improve accuracy and impress the judgesBy Martha Terry Published
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Hone your horse’s responsiveness with this super-simple exercise you can practise anywhereBy Martha Terry Published
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Develop your horse’s engagement in canter with this quick transition exerciseBy Martha Terry Published
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Sharpen your transitions using this simple exercise on a circleBy Martha Terry Published
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Develop your core strength and balance by practising these positions in the saddleBy Martha Terry Published
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Use this 10m loop exercise to build your horse’s strength, balance and suppleness – and test your aidsBy Bethany Stone Published
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Lacking inspiration? Mary King’s three simple exercises on a 20m circle will improve your riding skills – whatever your levelBy Martha Terry Published
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How to encourage your horse to stretch and relaxBy Cathy Comerford Published
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20-minute weekly workout: three ways to perfect your free walkBy Horse & Hound Published
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20-minute weekly workout: straightening the canterBy Horse & Hound Published
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The secrets behind riding perfect transitionsBy Horse & Hound Published
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20-minute weekly workout: how to avoid cutting corners in a dressage testBy Horse & Hound Published
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Riding the perfect circle and perfecting your prelim 1By Cathy Comerford Published