What are some good activities/drills to improve barrel racing and pole bending?

Question

using cones.. tires.. etc.

Answer 1

I always like to mix it up.  Set up different stuff to bend around, anything safe you have, out in a big field.  Sometimes we'll leave patches of tall weeds when we mow, just to bend around them.  Also, hay bales, firewood, that big rock over in the corner.  Just put them out randomly.

Then we'll go have fun, picking a new course every time.  Sometimes circle it one way; sometimes another.  Sometimes fast, sometimes slow.  Sometimes we'll just walk around and not bend anything, to encourage calmness.

The key is to not make it boring, for you OR the horse.  You'll keep the horse's pace adjustable; you'll teach it to listen to you instead of trying to judge the barrel on its own; and you'll get him flexible and quicken his reflexes.  And...  you'll find your riding improves as you learn to judge the turns, and your own strength and flexibility will improve.

Answer 2

Finally some one that said it right

the first answer should get 10 points

she said look at the next barrel most do not look up

and you have to be just as fit as your horse lean to use YOUR LEGS TO CONTROL YOUR HORSE NOT JUST HANDS

and circles learn to use the outside leg to keep his but from swinging out

bending and yielding  

learn not to OVER  turn your horse !  Most do !!!

barrel racers must learn that riding you have to be balanced and keep your horse balanced in turns work with him Not make him carry all your weight around your turns  

sit up in turns so he won't fall

P.s. do not wear a tie down he needs his neck for and to balance around turns

Answer 3

doing exercises that will help your horse bend and flex will help him most.start slow and then increase the speed.  Large circles gradually getting smaller and smaller will help, figure 8's also are good.  Remember you have as much to do with his performance as he does.  Your balance and concentration are both very big factors.  Always remember, keep your eyes on your next destination,look where you want your horse to go.  A good relaxer for competition horses is a long leisurely ride on a good trail or in the woods with different obstacles  to think about. Horses tend to work things out in thier minds so don't bore them