10 clear flatwork exercises for young horses
Training Scale “lens” page (how to use it in real life)
Simple progressions (walk → trot → canter)
“Where I use it” notes so you know when to pull each tool
Bite-sized cues you can read at the mounting block
Perfect if you’re short on time, riding a green horse who needs kind basics - not brain-fry - and you want clear structure without committing to a full schooling plan. It’s built for real days: 15–30 minute windows - pick a line and ride.
Ideal when you’re bringing on a young horse, getting back after a break, or just need a simple plan you can open on your phone and follow.
It sits neatly alongside lessons and needs no extra kit - just you, your horse, and a bit of focus.
Pick one exercise per ride (two if energy/attention allow)
Run the quick checks: Rhythm → Relaxation → Connection
Ride the simplest version; add progression only if the basics feel good
End on a small win and note what to try next time
It’s written with young horses in mind, but ALL horses will benefit from the exercises.
15–30 minutes is plenty. Little-and-often works best in my experience.
No, these exercises can be done anywhere - Some could work even better outside of the arena. The importance is that the rider maintains focus within their area to ensure accuracy within the exercise. Cones/poles are optional; every exercise works without them.
Yes. Each exercise has a plain-English “What / Why / How” and simple progressions.
100%. Bring it to your coach—most love riders who arrive with a plan.
HSI Level 2 Coach, mum of three, living in the overlap of horses, home, business and babies -sharing what actually works when time is short. I am very passionate about giving horses the best start in life and giving riders tools that work on real days, not just perfect ones.