10 Secrets to Memorizing Horse-Show Patterns

[source: AQHA.com]

To read the full article on AQHA.com, click here.

Everyone learns differently. For some exhibitors, visualizing a horse-show pattern is enough, while other competitors feel more comfortable performing the pattern horseback at least once before they perform it in the show pen.

Usually, horsemanship and hunt seat equitation patterns follow a three-component organization, says AQHA Professional Horsewoman Lynn Palm: There’s a beginning, middle and end separated by transitions. But you should learn the pattern, she says, using whatever method works best for you. (Lynn has some really great tips in this blogfor sharpening your patterns.)

We asked @officialaqha fans on Instagram to share their tricks for memorizing horse-show patterns.  

Sing!
Make up a song that rhymes to the words that you actually have to do. – @acolehorses

Draw It 
Use a dry-erase marker and whiteboard to draw the pattern from memory. – @taylorannwash

Visualization
Picture yourself running through the pattern on your horse. – @emalee_glover

(The pattern is the) last thing I see at night and sometimes it just comes to me. – @lopin.qh.dreams

Visualize every step. – @_briannahogg96