Riding figures

A poorly executed ring figure may point out where the rider is lacking in control, and areas in which the horse needs additional training.

For example, when riding down the diagonal, a rider may struggle to keep his horse on the correct path, suggesting issues with straightness.

A poorly performed 20-meter circle may indicate that the horse is not truly between the aids, perhaps falling out through a shoulder, or that the rider is sitting crookedly.

Figures are required components of dressage tests, are used in reining competition, and may also be asked for in equitation classes.

It is important to work the horse on figures in both directions, to ensure an equal build of muscle on either side.

The horse and rider travel along the rail all the way around the side of the arena, without changing direction.

For beginner lessons, full-school riding eliminates the need for them to turn, allowing them to focus on something simple, such as basic position.

Half-school along the width is occasionally seen in lessons, especially if the group is small, giving the instructor a chance to critique all riders.

For example, it allows the rider to focus on straightness as he rides down the centerline, and to use the 10-meter half-circles to ask for rebalancing and engagement.

The 20-meter circle is one of the most important training figures in dressage, first seen in the most simple tests possible, and continued on through Grand Prix.

It is one of the first ring figures taught to beginner riders and young or green horses.

Incorrect position or application of the aids, such as overuse of the inside rein, will often become apparent on the 20-meter circle.

This means that each side of the arena that touches the circle should only be met at a single point, and should not be ridden along for any period of time.

This exercise helps with engagement, as the horse must reach under himself as he changes the size of the circle and the path he is on.

When the rider is going across the diagonal, his horse should stay perfectly straight through his body and on his line, meeting "x" as he crosses the centerline.

It can be considered slightly more advanced, as the turns come up faster than when the rider goes across the long diagonal.

In this figure, the rider riding on long side of the arena performs a half-volte toward the inside of the ring, before gradually coming back to the wall.

Properly ridden, the horse will have correct bend in both half circles, changing flawlessly at the center point.

The horse is ridden down the imaginary centerline of the arena, from the letters C to A or vice versa.

The horse should first and foremost stay straight through his whole body, without dropping a shoulder or haunch inward.

One of the most common faults of the novice rider is to over-shoot the centerline, turning too late from the long side of the arena.

The rider rides down the quarterline (which falls half-way between the centerline and the long side of the arena).

It is a fairly simple figure, and may be applied to both beginner riders and young horses.

For jumping riders, a simple exercise with fences laid out along a figure-eight can help with bending and quick reflexes.