Polework with Polly

Posted 21st May 2026

Join us for some fun in-hand exercises!

Back in winter when we were getting to know our new bestie Polly, we started out with lots of groundwork to help establish our bond and trust in each other. We found that actually in-hand poles is one of our fave things to do with Polly, and we try to do one session a week. So, if you’re in need of some inspo, try our fun exercise!

Set it up

You’ll need 10 3m poles for this layout. It’s important to use the same length poles because having a mix of sizes will leave you with gaps in the set-up, which isn’t ideal! Place the first four poles in the middle of the arena to create a diamond. Then add a pole at each end of the diamond. Using this as a guide, position the final four poles around the edge to complete the layout.

TOP TIP

Use a bridle rather than headcollar while working over poles in-hand, and always wear your hat, gloves and boots!

Let’s warm up

Just because you aren’t riding or doing fast work doesn’t mean you should skip your warm-up! We begin by walking Polly around the arena in both directions, allowing her to stretch over her back. This helps prepare her body for exercise.

Although this isn’t hard work, we still want her to be using her body correctly to gain all the benefits of polework and minimise the risk of strain or injury to her muscles and joints.

Line 1

First up, walk your pony in a diagonal line over each of the four poles. It’s a good line to start with because the poles are parallel to each other. Try it on both diagonals and in both directions. Switching up the direction you’re going will help your pony maintain focus and prevent them from anticipating.

Did you know?

You can try this layout – and all of the exercises – in the saddle, too!

Line 2

Next, try this trickier line where your pony has to step over four points where two poles meet. Think about asking your pony to step over the point – this will encourage them to engage their core and lift their back, which works lots of key muscle groups and helps posture!