Riding hoof patter figures: Rail figures for beginners and advanced riders

Hoof patter is an important part of riding. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, mastering hoof patter not only improves your riding technique, but also promotes communication between horse and rider. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced rider, the most important thing is that you enjoy riding and respect your horse. So, get on your horse and let's get hoofing! In this article, you will learn tips and tricks for riding hoof patter figures, what mistakes are often made and how you can use hoof patter figures to add variety to your training.

What are hoof beats?

Hoof beats are defined as special movement patterns that a rider performs with their horse in a defined area, usually a riding arena such as a dressage arena or indoor arena. Hoof-beat figures are like choreographies for horse and rider and serve to improve control, coordination and communication between the rider and the horse. These figures can be simple circles, serpentines or more complex patterns such as figure eights. They are a fundamental element in the training of riders and horses. Riding hoof beat figures is a fundamental skill that every rider should master. It promotes communication between rider and horse and improves the training of both rider and horse.

Why are hoof picks important when riding?

Hoof patter figures are used to improve the horse's rideability, refine the rider's aids and train the horse's abilities. They are an indispensable tool in dressage training. dressage training and are also used in other equestrian disciplines. Hoof patter figures also promote the horse's suppleness, permeability and collection and enable differentiated aids to be given. They are not just isolated exercises, but serve as building blocks for more complex lessons and sequences, including lateral movements and tempi changes. Hoof patter figures are not only important for dressage, but also for show jumpingthe eventing and leisure riding. They help to make the horse supple and alert and promote balance and coordination.

• Riding hoof paces is a central aspect in the training of riders and horses. 
• Hoof picks help to train the horse and improve permeability.
• Hoof patter figures enable both sides of the horse to be trained evenly.

Other reasons why riding hoof patter figures are important from both the rider's and the horse's point of view:

Hoof beats from the rider's point of view:

• ‍Improvedcontrol: By riding hoof beat figures, the rider learns to control their horse precisely. This is particularly important in situations where quick and precise reactions are required, such as in show jumping or dressage.‍
• Refined aids: hoof beat figures require clear and consistent communication between rider and horse. The rider learns to give aids in such a way that the horse easily understands them.‍
• Technical skills: Different figures promote different skills. For example, circles and voltes improve maneuverability, while serpentines promote sideways movements.‍
• Preparation for horse shows: Almost all equestrian disciplines require certain hoof paces. Mastering these basics is crucial for success in competitions.‍
• Self-confidence: Successfully performing hoof beats gives the rider a sense of competence and confidence, which in turn improves the overall riding experience.‍
• Versatility: The ability to ride different hoof paces makes the rider more versatile and better prepared for different equestrian disciplines.

Hoof beats from the horse's point of view:

• ‍Physicalfitness : Riding hoof-beat figures is like a workout for the horse. It promotes the muscle developmentflexibility and general fitness.‍
• Mental stimulation: The figures require concentration and attention from the horse, which contributes to mental stimulation and balance.‍
• Trust: Through the clear and consistent communication required when riding hoof beat figures, the horse develops a stronger relationship of trust with the rider.‍
• Balance and coordination: Figures such as voltes and circles help the horse to develop better balance and coordination, which is particularly useful in difficult terrain situations or when jumping.‍
• Preparation for further training: Mastering hoof beats lays the foundation for more advanced exercises and lessons required at higher levels of training.‍
• Well-being: A well-trained and mentally stimulated horse is usually a happier and healthier horse. The variety that hoof patter brings to training can help to reduce boredom and stress in the horse.

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The different types of hoof picks

Hoof picks are important for training your horse. There are many types that will help you improve your horse's dexterity and balance. Some of the best known are voltes, circles, serpentines and figure eights. The volte is a round movement that can be performed in different sizes. The circle is a circular movement that is often used for the warm-up. Snake lines are an exercise for agility and balance. Eights, for example, are ideal for practicing changes of direction. Each of these figures has its own specific advantages and can be adapted individually.

Which hoof patter patterns are there? Overview of shoeing patterns as pdf for download

There are, for example, the following hoof beats that you can incorporate into your daily training:

• Whole track
• Half track
  
• Change through the entire lane
• Change through half the lane
• Riding the length of the track
• Compasses
• Eighth
• Volte
• Change out of the circle
• Change Through the Circle
• Serpentine lines
• Simple serpentine lines
• Double serpentine lines
• Serpentine line through the course with 3 or 4 bends

Riding a volte

What is a volte?

The volte is a circle that is ridden in the riding arena. It can have different diameters, usually 6, 8, 10 or 12 meters.

Why is the volte important?

The volte promotes the horse's agility, balance and bending. It is one of the most basic hoof movement figures and serves as the basis for more complex figures.

How do you ride a volte? How to ride a volte

• Select center point: Choose a point on the riding arena that serves as the center of the volte.
• Ride a circle: Ride a circle around this point, making sure that the horse is evenly bent.
• Head position: The horse should tilt its head slightly towards the center of the circle to show the correct bend.‍
• Tip: You can also change direction out of the circle. To do this, ride out on the open side of your circle and continue on a new circle (similar to a figure eight). It is also possible to change direction within a circle. To do this, ride through the middle of the circle (as when riding a figure of eight) and change direction on the circle.

Riding circles

What is a compass?

A circle is a larger circle that often encompasses the entire riding arena/arena or a large part of it.

Why is the circle important?

The circle is particularly useful for sensitizing the horse to the rider's aids and training balance.

How do you ride a circle? How to ride a circle

• Starting point: Start at a point at the edge of the riding arena.
• Large circle: Ride a large circle that encompasses the entire arena or a large part of it.
• Consistency: Keep the horse evenly on the reins and ensure a constant contact and speed.

Serpentine lines

What are serpentine lines?

Snake lines are a series of half circles ridden alternately in different directions. These can vary in the number of bends. For example, a single, double, triple or quadruple serpentine line.

Why are serpentine lines important?

They promote the horse's agility and flexibility and help the rider to improve control over the horse's movements.

How do you ride serpentines? How to ride serpentines

• Start: Start at one end of the riding arena.
• Half circles: Ride a half circle to the center of the arena.
• Change direction: Change direction and ride another half circle to the other side of the arena.
• Repetition: Repeat this pattern over the entire length of the riding arena, depending on how many bends you want to ride the serpentine line with
• Tip: You can also incorporate tempo changes or transitions, e.g. before changing direction.

Change through the entire lane

The rider moves from one side of the arena to the other, usually in a diagonal line. Improves straightness and encourages the horse's attention.

Riding instructions for changing the whole course

• Preparation: Before you start the hoof beat figure, make sure that you are riding on the first hoof beat and that your direction is clear. Your horse should be straight and attentive.
• Turn away: When you arrive at the change point (e.g. at the letter K, M or H, F), you turn away. This means that you steer your horse in the direction of the diagonal of the square, to the opposite point of the diagonal.
• Ride a diagonal line: Now ride a straight line from one change point to the opposite change point (e.g. from K to M or from H to F). Keep your horse straight and keep a steady pace.
• Change direction: When you reach the opposite change point, prepare to change direction. Position and bend your horse gently in the new direction.
• Continue riding on the new hoof beat: After the change of direction, continue riding on the first hoof beat in the new direction.

U-turn

The horse turns 180 degrees to go in the opposite direction.

Why is sweeping out of the corner important?

• Purpose: Promotes the horse's aids, agility and balance.

Instructions for riding a U-turn from the corner

1. Preparation: Start with a calm, steady walk or trot. Ride towards a corner of the arena. Your horse should be alert and facing straight ahead.
2. Riding out the corner correctly: Before you initiate the turn, it is important to ride out the corner well. This means you should bend the horse slightly and use the corner to prepare a natural turn.
3. Initiating the turn: After you have ridden out the corner, prepare to initiate the turn. Shift your weight slightly in the direction you want to turn. Use your inside leg aids to bend the horse and your outside rein aids to support the turn.
4. Performing the turn: Steer the horse in a semi-circle so that it performs a 180-degree turn. The turn should be fluid and controlled, with the horse's hindquarters as the pivot point.
5. Completing the turn: After the horse has completed the turn, it should continue directly and straight ahead into the original gait. Make sure that your horse remains under control throughout the exercise and does not accelerate out of the turn.
6. Correction and praise: If the turn is not executed correctly, correct gently and try again. Don't forget to praise your horse after successful execution.

Tips and tricks for riding hoof patter figures

Hopping figures can sometimes be tricky, but with the right tips you will master them in no time at all.

1. Always be relaxed and calm, because the horse can sense your tension.
2. Praise your horse when you have successfully completed a step. Don't forget to praise even small partial steps.
3. Always try to ride in a flowing movement, without abrupt stops or changes of direction. Practice makes perfect, so keep at it, even if it's difficult at first.
4. Remember that communication with your horse is key. You need to be clear and concise so that he understands exactly what you want him to do. With patience and practice, you will master the hoof beats.

Tips for beginners

But where do you start as a beginner? No problem! Start with simple figures such as full circle, circles, volts and serpentines. They improve your horse's agility and balance. Practice first at a walk, then at a trot and finally at a canter. Don't overtax your horse, keep the training sessions short and positive. And don't forget: practice makes perfect! Remain patient and consistent and you will notice the improvements in your riding. The hoof beat figures will make your riding training more varied and effective.

• Start with simple hoof beats, such as the volte or the circle.
• Practice at a walk before moving on to a trot or canter.
• Make sure you sit and lean correctly.
• Observe the rules of the arena or riding arena if you are not riding alone with your horse.

Tip: You can find out how you can learn to let go and improve your aids in this video from our ClipMyHorse.TV Academy: Learning to let go for better aids!

You need to know these basics about the hoof beat:

Types of hoof beats

‍Firsthoof beat: outermost line of the riding arena.
Second hoof beat: one horse width (approx. 1.5m) to the inside.
Third hoof beat: one more horse width to the inside.

‍Handand hand change‍

The "hand" indicates the direction in which you are riding on the hoof beat.
A hand change is a hoof beat figure that changes direction.

‍Track points

Track points are internationally standardized and vary depending on the size of the square (20 x 40 meters or 20 x 60 meters).

• The track points A and C always mark the center of the short side of the riding arena.
• The track points E and B are the center of the long side of the riding arena.

‍Tipsfor advanced users & training videos

Are you already good at riding rail figures? Then take it one step further. Try the arena reduction, which is a challenge but also a way to improve your horse's control and balance. Or try the trot to Canter transition. This takes a lot of practice, but if you master it, your horse will become more supple and responsive. And don't forget to always practise with calm and patience. Your horse will thank you for it!

• Ride more complex hoof beat figures, such as figure eights, serpentines, changing out of the circle or combinations of different figures. These require a higher degree of control and coordination.
• Try riding away from the rail: We'll show you how to riding on the quarter line into your training. ‍
• Ride transitions‍
• Practice the shoulder-in Riding. We will show you how this works with the three different hoof beats.

Mistakes to avoid when riding hoof patter figures & training videos

There are some common mistakes that you should avoid when riding rail figures.

1. Always make sure that you keep to the correct line. Avoid riding too close to the rail, otherwise your figure will be too small.
2. Be consistent in your pace. A common mistake is to go too fast or too slow.
3. Make sure that you always keep an eye on your horse's balance. Avoid turning too abruptly, as this can throw your horse off balance.
4. Practice regularly and with patience. It is normal that not every figure is perfect the first time. Stay focused and consistent in your practice to see steady improvements

Irregular shape of the figures

Problem: The figure looks more like an egg or an ellipse.
Tip: Practice by using cones or markers as landmarks. Make sure that you use the reins, thighs and weight aids evenly.
You can find a training video on how to give the right aids when riding in the ClipMyHorse.TV Academy: Training video: Giving aids

Too fast or too slow a pace

A good tempo is crucial for successful hoof beats. 

Problem: The horse speeds up or slows down during the figure, which impairs control and precision. Too fast a tempo can overtax the horse and lead to accidents. Too slow a tempo, on the other hand, can reduce the horse's concentration and impair the execution of the figures. It is important to find a balanced tempo that is comfortable for both the rider and the horse. The ideal tempo depends on the figure in question and the horse's level of training. Hopping figures is not only a good exercise for dexterity, but also a way to strengthen the bond between rider and horse. So, pay attention to your speed.
Tip: Practice speed control through transitions in and between gaits. Use your voice, leg aids and weight aids to keep the horse at a steady pace.
Training video: Riding at a steady pace

Incorrect aids when riding 

Problem: Unclear or contradictory aids lead to confusion for the horse.
Tip: Work on refining your aids, both rein aids, weight aids and leg aids. Have you ever tried getting tips from an experienced rider or riding instructor? This will help you to reflect on your aids and avoid making unconscious mistakes.
Training video: Optimizing aids and refining transitions

Lack of bending of the horse

Problem: The horse remains stiff and does not bend along the line of the figure.
Tip: Practice the bend in simpler exercises such as voltes or circles.

Make sure that your horse has warmed up well before the exercise. Using hoof patter figures at the walk as a warm-up exercise is a practical way to loosen up. Start with large, curved figures. The more warmed up your horse is, the tighter the turns you can ride.
Training video: Improve bending and permeability

Unbalanced weight distribution

Problem: The rider leans too much inwards or outwards, which disturbs the horse's balance.
Tip: Pay attention to your own seat and posture when riding. Always try to sit straight and balanced in the saddle. Weight aids exist! Practice without stirrups to get a better feel for weight distribution.
Training video: Balance and equilibrium in the saddle

Inattention or distraction

Problem: The rider is not fully mentally focused, which leads to mistakes and ambiguities in communication with the horse.
Tip: Practice mindfulness techniques to improve your concentration. Concentrate fully on the task at hand. If you notice that your thoughts are wandering, take a short break and regroup. Have you ever tried singing a song while riding? This can help you to relax.
Training video: Relaxing exercises and concentration

How you can improve your hoof picks

Want to improve your hoof patter? First, remember the basics. Make sure you have correct posture and a good connection to the horse. Then, practise regularly - practice makes perfect. Experiment with different figures such as voltes, serpentines or circles. Use the whole arena to train your horse evenly. Also change the speed regularly to promote flexibility and responsiveness. And don't forget to take regular breaks so that your horse is not overtaxed and can recover. With patience and perseverance, you will soon notice a visible improvement. Have fun with your training!

Fun and variations when riding hoof beat figures

Hoof patter figures are not only a must for dressage exercises, they also add fun and variety to your riding training. You can experiment with different figures such as voltes, serpentines or circles. These not only improve your horse's balance and agility, but also your communication and cooperation. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced rider, hoof beat figures offer a way to improve your riding. Try it out and experience the difference that hoof patter can make to your riding training!
Training video: Riding relaxed and without tension

Why hoof beats are also important in show jumping

Hoof paces are not only essential in dressage, but also in show jumping. They help to steer the horse correctly and keep it in balance, even when there are obstacles in the way. They also strengthen communication between rider and horse. With hoof beats such as voltes, serpentines and circles, you train your horse's agility and flexibility. This is particularly important in show jumping when quick changes of direction are required. So, never underestimate the importance of hoof patter, even if your main focus is on show jumping.