| It is sometimes underestimated how important the | | | | warm up and work to a suitable level for what you |
| warm up is before going into the class. Too often | | | | want. Work out the time backwards for the start time |
| people walk about waiting for their class to be called | | | | of your class. Every horse is different, some benefit |
| when they could be working with their horse to ensure | | | | from starting by wandering about on a long rein |
| they are both ready to achieve what they need to in | | | | relaxing and taking in their surroundings, others respond |
| the class. This is the perfect time to finalise plans and | | | | better by getting on with starting work on large circles |
| goals of how you want to perform in the class and | | | | in trot etc to get their concentration rather than being |
| perfect your transitions etc with your horse. | | | | distracted by the excitement and bustle of the show. |
| Firstly you need to determine where your ring / arena | | | | Use your warm up techniques that you do when you |
| is, where the entrance is, what the protocol is for | | | | start your schooling sessions at home, do not distract |
| starting your class. If it is dressage can you warm up | | | | yourself by others and what they are doing, and focus |
| inside the boards before the bell or do you have to do | | | | on you and your horse. Practice various movements |
| it outside? What will signal you to start? Knowing | | | | that you will have to do in the test / class. It is too late |
| these things will help keep the stress levels low and | | | | to try and teach you horse anything new so it is best |
| minimise unwanted surprises. | | | | to just concentrate on making your horse obedient, |
| Having worked with your horse preparing him for the | | | | supple, responsive and ready for the task ahead. |
| show you should be aware of how long he takes to | | | | |