The Halt over Pole obstacle at Introductory and Preparatory level is designed to prepare your horse for a side pass over the pole by making your horse comfortable and confident with the pole positioned underneath. It also encourages your horse to be calm, balanced, and responsive to subtle aids.

This simple yet fundamental exercise helps to refine your skills in executing a smooth, well-balanced halt.

Judges are looking for:

A straight line entry toward the pole.

An accurate halt with the pole perfectly centered between the front and hind legs of your horse.

Your horse to remain immobile for 5 seconds.

A balanced, forward step on your aid to depart.

Training Tips

➤ For your horse’s first attempts, use a visual aid like a line in the sand or a rope on the ground to help them understand where to stop and build confidence in the halt.

➤ Once your horse is confident halting on a visual aid, progress to standing quietly over a pole. Take your time—halt obstacles require patience, giving your horse the opportunity to relax, release tension, and learn to wait calmly.

➤ Focus on building softness and balance in the halt, avoiding rushing or forcing your horse.

➤ Use consistent, gentle aids to encourage your horse to halt squarely and remain balanced, without needing to adjust or reposition their legs afterward.

➤ For horses that tend to fidget, start with short, successful halts and gradually increase the duration as their confidence and relaxation improve.

With regular practice, this obstacle builds your horse’s focus, balance, and deliberate movement—the foundation for success in Working Equitation and the key to a strong working partnership.