Obstacle Spotlight: Double Slalom

Setup requirements:

Preparatory & Preliminary (Requirements for VWE course):

• Two slalom lines using 5 poles

• Initial line of 3 upright poles or cones spaced 7 m apart

• Second line of 2 poles placed 7 m from the first line, evenly positioned at the centre point between the gaps

Novice and above (Requirements for VWE course):

• 8 m spacing between poles/cones and between each line with a total of 5 poles

Transition markers are placed with adequate space for size of circles at the entry and exit of the obstacle

✦Training show allowance:

Slight variation is permitted for the virtual show so that we can accomodate the 20x40m arena size while maintaining the intent of the obstacle.

A 7-pole configuration is not feasible with this arena size for Elementary and Medium levels so these levels will be using a 5-pole setup.

Gait Expectations

Preparatory: Walk or trot

Preliminary: Trot

Novice: Canter (due to 5 pole setup in this course otherwise trot option allowed for 7 pole setup)

Elementary / Medium: Canter

What Judges Are Looking For

• A consistent size circle or loop around each pole with the horses spine following the arc of the circle.

• Circle or loop size appropriate to the horse’s level and gait

• Bend change timing and path of travel centered between previous and next poles

• Fluid execution without loss of balance or rhythm

• Correct gait maintained throughout

• A calm, confident, harmonious picture

Canter-specific requirements (where applicable)

Correct canter lead maintained around each pole

Balance maintained during change of lead

✦Lead change requirements by level:

Novice: Lead changes performed through walk or trot

Elementary: Lead changes performed either through walk or as a flying change

Medium: Flying lead changes required

Training Tips for Double Slalom Success

❖ Begin training with wider spacing (around 10 m) or larger circles to allow the horse time to recover balance and reduce pressure

❖ Start at walk, focusing on preparation and clarity of line before increasing gait

❖ Prepare for the change of bend early allowing your horse to organise their body

❖ Use small, subtle corrections to preserve flow without creating tension

❖ Expect improvement over repetitions rather than immediate results

❖ Encourage relaxation, particularly if the horse rushes or shows tension.

❖ Avoid overcorrecting asymmetries; instead, aim for gradual, symmetrical development

❖ Support training with lateral work away from the obstacle to improve flexibility and balance

A well-ridden double slalom demonstrates suppleness in both directions, steadiness, stamina, and the ability to maintain accuracy, balance, and fluency through repeated changes of bend and lead.