The Fan

 Goal(s) :

Improve the horse's suppleness and develop balance; regularity of rhythm; maintenance of bend; honesty and calmness; control of the line.

 Process :

1. Setting up the exercise

Place 3 to 5 ground poles in a fan shape, that is:
One end of the poles meets at the center (or almost).
The other end opens out like the spokes of a half-circle.
Space the poles about 1.20 m to 1.50 m apart at the center (for walk) or 1.50 m to 1.80 m for trot, depending on the horse's size and stride length.

📍 Adjust the spacing according to the gait you are working on.


2. Riding over the fan

-> At the walk (beginners or warm-up)
- Approach the fan on a small circle or a large volte.
- Keep your horse straight between your legs and reins, bent according to the line.
- Ride over 2 or 3 poles, maintaining rhythm and regularity.

-> At the trot (intermediate to advanced level)

- Slightly increase impulsion.
- Maintain a consistent bend.
- Aim for the middle or the outside of the poles depending on the stride length you want.
- You can vary your line: the closer you are to the center, the shorter the strides; the further out you go, the longer the strides.

-> Advanced variation: at the canter

- This is more difficult, as lateral balance is more fragile.
- It requires a horse that is straight and balanced on the circle.

 Difficulties :

1. Maintaining balance on the circle

- The horse works on a constant curve while stepping over poles.
- This requires the horse to stay laterally balanced, without falling inwards or drifting outwards.

💡 Increased difficulty at the canter: balance is more precarious, especially for a young horse.

2. Rider coordination and precision

The rider must:
- Choose an accurate line (closer or further from the center).
- Maintain a consistent bend.
- Control impulsion without rushing.

❗A heavy hand or poor leg control can disrupt the exercise.

3. Engagement and activity of the hindquarters

- To step over the poles, the horse must engage its hindquarters and stay active.
- This is not natural for all horses, especially those that are a bit lazy or stiff.

4. Repetition and mental fatigue

- Working on a circle can be repetitive and mentally tiring for the horse.
- Be sure to change direction, take breaks, and avoid overdoing it.

5. Adjusting distances

- If the poles are not spaced correctly for the horse's stride, it can:
- Disorganize the horse.
- Cause tripping or frustration.
- So, always adapt the spacing to each gait and adjust as needed.