Walk poles have many benefits when bringing horses back into work. They are a low impact way to build core strength and can be used both under saddle, on the lunge line or in hand.
When first starting, the poles should either be flat or slightly raised (no more than a couple of inches) as this gives the horse time to get used to the work. As more fitness is gained, the poles can be raised to between six and eight inches to encourage a more active walk. Ideally, the poles will be raised at alternate ends as this encourages the horse to be more aware of the poles and increases the intensity as the horse has to lift their legs in a way they may not usually.
When laying out the poles, it is best to have both a low set - ideally between four or five poles, set roughly one stride apart - and a more raised set that can be used once the horse is warmed up.
As the horse gets accustomed to the work, the raised poles can be laid out in pairs, raised at alternative ends, with one stride between each pole in each pair. The best set up in pole - stride - pole - three stride gap - pole - stride - pole. For more advanced horses, an additional pole - stride - pole can be added three strides from this. (So there are three sets of two poles in total)
It is best to first introduce the horse to this work in hand, either in a halter or well fitted bridle. Keep sessions short at first, even down to one or two passes for young horses. Ten minutes is ideal when bringing a horse back into work. Due to the raised poles, the horse gets a work out equivalent to using a water treadmill and this can be very intense.
This exercise tones the horse's core, teaches them to be aware of where their legs are and encourages flexibility. It is a great workout that is low impact, but gives a good result.
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