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Step 1
Find the diagram of the circuit, which will you will usually find posted near the gate entrance on a bulletin board. Look over the layout and try to imagine riding the course and jumping the fences.
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Step 2
Stand in an open space with a copy of the course in your hand. Walk a small-scale route of the diagram directions, turning where there are turns and making a large step or even jump where fences are on the map. Physically acting out the stages will help you remember when you are performing as you have already done the actions.
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Step 3
Repeat this process several times until you are familiar with the sequence of events and can predict the next step without consulting the diagram.
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Step 4
Walk the course once when you receive the instruction that you can and transfer your knowledge of the diagram to the actual scale of the course. Don't be alarmed if some steps seem different, remind yourself that you know what is coming up next and focus on getting the direction right.
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Step 5
Look for problem areas that your horse might encounter such as difficult fences, unfamiliar jumping combinations or wide water. Plan how you will deal with these and walk out the steps to measure distances.
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Step 6
Repeat the walk of the course again if you have an opportunity and picture yourself completing the course with top form. Going into the event with a positive picture in your mind will give you confidence that you will transfer to your horse.
