3 tips to riding a 20m circle

Riding a perfect 20m circle sounds fairly simple. However, it is a manoeuvre where a lot of riders lose crucial points in their dressage tests. Riding a perfect circle is the foundation of equitation. Present in dressage tests all the way up the levels and a vital move in showjumping, cracking the perfect circle could put you in favour of a podium position. So, to help, we’ve put together some pointers to get you on your way to circle perfection!

Bend

One of the most common errors riders make when riding a 20m circle is overbending their horse. A 20m circle is a large circle, so a large amount of inside bend means that your horse’s body is not following the perimeter of the circle.

However, you are on a circle, so you should never be turning. Putting your horse in inside flexion should be enough. Remember, flexion is not a severe neck bend; it is simply the subtle turning of the head to be able to see the horse’s inside eye, ear, and nostrils. Putting your horse in this amount of inside flexion should help to keep your horse’s body aligned with a 20m circle perimeter.

Accuracy of riding a circle

Accuracy is key to securing the maximum points possible when riding a 20m circle!

Try using the dressage markers to your advantage, breaking the circle into manageable sections. Make sure you ride a curved line to each marker and hit X if your circle is situated at A or C.

For a real test of accuracy, begin your circle at B or E, so you have no boards to help you out! This can also help to give you a real picture of where you might be going wrong.

Also, remember, during your test, that judges are looking for three qualities of rhythm; ‘quality of pace, regularity, and tempo’. Rhythm is the beat of your horse’s footfall and indicates balance within the pace. Make sure to keep it slow, as riders have the tendency to speed everything up when under pressure.

Count the strides or play one of your favourite songs, which fits the beat of your horse’s usual tempo, in your head to maintain consistency in the regularity and tempo (speed) of the pace. Ensuring your horse is responsive to your aids should help you keep the rhythm of your horse’s gait.

Position

When riding a circle, it is important that your horse and you are positioned correctly!

When you’re riding a circle, always look for your next dressage maker, as this will give you something to focus on. Looking for your next marker will also help you maintain a slight inside tilt to your upper body, following the movement and bend of your horse. Remember, during a dressage test, that position counts within your collective marks!

If you’re nervous, as we all can be when entering the competition ring, make sure to constantly check your position for any signs of tension, which often come with nerves.

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