12/09/2025
š“ Why Do We Count Strides?
A closer look into the techniques we use to build confident, aware riders
At Hylee Training, one of our favorite tools in the saddle is stride countingāand if you've ever ridden with Alicia, you've probably done your fair share of it!
So why the focus on strides?
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It teaches feel ā Counting strides helps riders connect with their horseās rhythm and movement.
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It sharpens your timing ā Learning how to measure and adjust stride length improves straightness, pace, and control.
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It builds confidence ā When you know where you are between two points, you ride with more intention and authority.
In Aliciaās sessions, you'll often start with exercises like counting strides between cones or rails on the ground. It might sound simple, but it reveals a lot about your balance, energy, and communication with your horse.
As your skill grows, so do the challengesāthink stride goals in patterns, stride adjustments on curves, and even pole work courses that test both your accuracy and feel.
