Description
The task is based on the exercise "Snowman", but differs in particular in that it is ridden in counter position. It begins in the middle of a short side. From there, 1.5 circles are first ridden in an outside canter. On the middle line, the trot is prepared and immediately turned away on a big volte on the other hand. This is also circled 1.5 times in the outside position. When the centre line is reached again, the trot is repaired and a small countervolt is performed in the walk.
Tips and hints
It is important that only the head and neck are slightly turned down during the contraction. Otherwise the horse remains straight. The higher the gait and the narrower the line, the more demanding is riding in counter position. The exercise combines the largest radius with the highest gait. Ridden upside down, i.e. the circle in walk, the first volt in trot and the last in canter, the degree of difficulty increases significantly. Pylons in the middle of the circles/voltes or in the form of pylon gates at the change points can serve as optical orientation.
Training goal
Counteractions bring numerous positive effects with them. First and foremost, they serve to counteract the natural skew of the horse in the straightening direction. Furthermore the flexibility is improved and balance, permeability and concentration are trained. The change between left and right position loosens the horse especially in the area of the head and neck muscles. The exercise helps the rider to improve the coordination of the aids.
- Straightening
- Gymnastics
- Coordination
