The Wagon Wheel

 Goal(s) :

For the horse:

- Improve proprioception (awareness of space and foot placement).
- Learn to cross simple obstacles with regularity and calmness.
- Strengthen lateral mobility (suppleness of hips and shoulders).
- Get used to listening to and anticipating cues, even in technical sequences.

 Process :

You can set up ground poles directly, spacing them for trot distances between 1.50 m and 1.80 m depending on the horse’s size and stride length.

- Position yourself in the center of the poles and put the horse on a circle around the poles at a walk.
- Once the horse is comfortable, ask him to walk between the cones.
- As the exercise progresses, you can ask for the trot.

💡 Practical tips:

- Always start at the walk to establish understanding.
- Reward each calm pass with a break or a pat.
- Change rein regularly to work on symmetry.
- On the lunge: maintain a fluid and steady position, avoid pulling on the lunge line.
- Avoid routine: vary the entries, the poles chosen, and the gaits.

 Difficulties :

- The horse cuts the circle. (Lack of direction or impulsion)
- Rushing over the poles
- Loss of balance or missteps (Engagement or suppleness issue; work on gentle gymnastic exercises and proprioception)