Quarter Horse Equitation classes normally have riders execute a pattern for judging.  This was an area that Fox and I truly excelled in.  Yes he was a champion Equitation horse at Quarterama at one time, and his skills taught me quite a bit...but it was my practicing of these patterns regularly that kept us sharp and always on top.

I still to this day practice patterns during almost every ride.  They don't have to be elaborate.  They just need to be tight, consist of both a posting and sitting trot, as well as one canter departure...Tracking from the right at the trot and the asking for the canter to the left is the most difficult.  When you horse does that seamlessly, then you know you are getting good.

If you are already competing then you have a variety of patterns to choose from.  I used to keep them all in my trunk and look at them before I would ride and practice one or two of them as often as I could.  I also always had my student work through patterns, whether they were showing competitors or beginners just learning how to steer.  I actually at one time posted a pattern every week for students to learn and show me during their lessons.

If you are not familiar with Equitation patterns try some simple ones.  For Example, start at one end of the arena facing the center.  Ask you horse to pick up his trot.  Sit a circle to the right.  Back at the center line begin a circle to the left only at this point pick up your rising trot.  As you close that circle, stop.  Now pick up your right lead.  Canter about fifteen feet and halt.  Back up four steps.  Walk off.  Simple!

Remember your circles needs to be tight and even.  Not ridiculously small, but don't use the rail as the outside of your circle....you should come no where near the rail.  Try these with and without stirrups.  Keep your leg long, your shoulders back, your hands up.  Look straight ahead and feel for your horse's movement, feel your diagonal.  It's what I always preach about....communicate with your horse....Use those natural aids and execute beautifully.

Good Luck!