Weeks 5-6 involve which activities?

• A. Canter, trot poles, longer schooling
• B. Walk all week
• C. Rest
• D. Only dressage basics

Answer: (A)

Weeks five and six move into more advanced flatwork and methodical schooling. Introducing canter and trot poles helps the horse and rider develop balance, rhythm, and coordination, while longer schooling sessions build endurance and allow practice of consistent tempo, transitions, and maintaining an even outline over a longer period. This combination fits a progression from earlier, simpler work: you’re not staying at walking or taking rest, and you’re adding elements beyond basic dressage basics. These weeks purposefully pair a new gait with practical grid work and extended schooling to consolidate control and communication between rider and horse.