Teach your pony to go straight

Teaching your pony to go straight, whether you’re riding on the flat or over fences, has sooo many benefits. But what does straightness really mean and how can you achieve it? Let’s find out.

The benefits

Having a straighter pony helps…

• them build muscle more evenly, which can reduce the risk of injury
• you to gain better marks in dressage tests
• build the foundations for the higher levels of any discipline
• you jump more clear rounds
• to make them more enjoyable to ride

What is straightness?

Having your pony straight means they’re working evenly on both sides, with perfect alignment from their poll to their tail. A straight pony carries equal weight on all four legs and is balanced in all three paces and over fences. Like us, ponies are naturally one-sided, so it’s our job to help them straighten up. Our clever exercises will help you do just that!

Did you know?

When your pony’s working straight, their hind feet will follow the same tracks as their front feet.

Centre point

If you compete in dressage you’ll need to perfect your centre lines, but even if you don’t, practising straight lines along the centre line is a good exercise to do.

As you approach the short side, ride a half 10-metre circle from the corner marker onto the centre line. Keep your pony channelled equally between both hands and legs as you make your turn, then ride positively forward. Remember to look ahead in the direction you want to go.

As you approach the end of the arena, ride another half 10-metre circle in the other direction to change the rein. Repeat the exercise now you’re on the other rein and see which feels easier for your pony.

TOP TIP

If your pony needs help to stay straight, place poles a metre apart either side of the centre line and ride between them.

For more tips for teaching your pony to go straight, pick up a copy of July PONY – on sale now!