If you’re looking for more structure in your rides, this post is for you. One of the most common questions I get is, “Can you help me plan my ride?” In this video, I’m walking you through a full Training Level ride broken into three parts: warm-up, working phase, and cool-down. No matter what level you are riding, this structure will help you stay focused, keep your horse progressing, and ensure every ride is productive.
Before we get into planning your ride, make sure to check out my Free Plan Your Ride Workbook based on the Training Scale, and my workshops for Training Level, First Level, and Second Level riders. Check out the workshops here.
Ok, now let’s get on to the tips!
Warm-Up Phase
Start with a solid 10–15 minutes of walking. Use this time to focus on your rider position, the rhythm of the walk (a clear four-beat gait), and your horse’s relaxation. From here, add in a few shallow loop serpentines and test the free walk. See if your horse will stretch, reach for the contact, and stay soft.
Next, pick up the rising trot. A great warm-up exercise is riding three 20-meter circles—one at the top, one in the middle, and one at the end of the arena. Focus on rider position, rhythm, and activity. Circles help with bending, which improves suppleness. Don’t just ride the shapes—ride for quality.
Working Phase
After your warm-up, walk for a minute or two to let your horse relax. Then move into the canter work. One of the best ways to build strength and balance at Training Level is by doing trot-canter-trot transitions.
Start on your horse’s easier lead. Stay on a circle and focus on rhythm, suppleness, and connection. Wait until the trot feels balanced before asking for the canter. If the trot is too slow or rushed, the transition won’t go well.
Once in the canter, assess your position and your horse’s balance. Is your horse round? Are they soft in the hand? Spend time in both directions and aim for even work on both sides. And if things go a little wrong—that’s okay! This is a training ride, not a test.
Cool-Down Phase
End your ride with stretching in the trot. Stretching helps test the connection and promotes relaxation after the more intense work. Keep thinking about rhythm, suppleness, and encouraging your horse to lengthen through their topline. Take your time coming back to walk and finish with a relaxed, swinging stride.
Why It Matters
Behind every exercise and every ride plan is the Training Scale. At Training Level, your main focus should be rhythm, suppleness, and connection. Planning your ride around these core principles helps your horse develop correctly and keeps your rides structured and purposeful.
Happy Riding!
Amelia
P.S. Don’t forget to download the Free Plan Your Ride Guide to help you apply the Training Scale to your daily rides.
