Are you arena-smart? Riding arenas are good for more than just going ’round and ’round. Use your time there to solve a range of riding problems—and have fun while you’re at it.

How? By targeting one specific objective, then seeing how well you can achieve it as you ride various figures or patterns. Let’s say your horse has difficulty maintaining a steady pace at the jog. Rather than striving for regularity as you jog around the arena’s perimeter, ride a series of patterns while focusing on keeping his gait even and consistent.

Learn more in “Solve Riding Problems With This One Great Tip,” at The Thinking Rider blog on HorseandRider.com.