Serpentine with Circles

 Goal(s) :

To work on bending and straightness, as well as changes of direction, to channel both the rider's and the horse's actions on relatively simple and repetitive patterns.

 Process :

Work on a serpentine with 4 loops where each loop includes a 10m circle. The circle is worked on a 'normal' bend, and straightness is sought on the straight lines.
The serpentine is initially performed at the walk, and gradually, depending on each horse, a circle can be removed or the circle can be worked on an outside bend. The same can be done at the trot. Depending on the horse, transitions can also be added on the straight lines to the walk, trot, or halt.

 Difficulties :

Maintaining a sustained and dynamic pace.
Learning to take time for both the rider and the horse and not to get frustrated. The exercise can be somewhat repetitive, providing a framework for the pair, but it also requires not skipping steps regardless of the level.