In this feature. . .► Make schooling sessions more fun ►Clever polework exercises ►Step up your dressage game
POLEWORK CREATIONS: Fast forward
Tania Grantham kicks off her new training series with a simple layout that’s suitable for all levels
As told to Bethany Searby.
Photos: Lucy Merrell
Many people are put off building polework exercises because they aren’t sure about how to set up the striding. However, the beauty of the shape-inspired layouts I use is that you don’t need to sort out distances and they’re easy enough for a helper to put together.
Over the next three issues, I’ll introduce you to three super-simple layouts that’ll help step up your dressage game while making flatwork more fun. Better still, they’re suitable for horses of all sizes and make schooling with friends possible without altering a single pole. This month, we’ll get started with a small but mighty six-pole layout.
Our expert
Surrey-based Tania Grantham is a Grand Prix dressage rider known for her inventive approach to polework. As well as hosting regular clinics, Tania shares her creations on social media for everyone to try.
Set it up
You’ll need
Six equal length poles, preferably standard 3m ones.
Build it
Construct two triangles on the centre line. This can be anywhere you wish, but it’s helpful to align the top triangle with the top of a 20m circle at A to help you practise accurate shapes, as shown in the diagram.