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