Emily Beisel walks the barrel pattern on foot to help her analyze each turn, focusing on hand, body, and leg positioning. She explains how this method has helped her develop muscle memory, improve timing, and build a better connection with her horse before ever stepping into the saddle.
Scope the Arena Before Your Run
Beisel is a highly visual learner, so whenever she gets the opportunity to step into an arena before a run, she takes full advantage of it.
“I love analyzing each arena, each set-up and try to adjust accordingly so that way I can set my horses up for success.”
Your Approach to the First Barrel On Foot
First, assess the alleyway to see if it’s centered with the third barrel. If it’s not, Beisel explains that instead of focusing on the fence—since it’s too far past the first barrel—she picks a dirt clod or marker in the track of the first barrel’s pocket to guide her approach.
“I find a spot on the ground that I can focus my attention on to get to that spot. Once I get there, that’s when I know to sit, go to my saddle horn and make the turn. It makes more sense to me to go to the actual spot you are wanting to ride to, rather than past the first barrel like the fence.”
The Second Barrel On Foot
As Emily Beisel rounds the backside of the first barrel, her focus shifts to the next key spot on the ground—where she wants to set the pocket for the second barrel. Once she reaches that point, she sits deep in her saddle, grabs the horn, and drives through the turn. Practicing this on foot helps reinforce the habit of looking at your pocket and not the barrel.
“Always look at where you want to go because that’s where your horse will go.”
The Third Barrel On Foot
After rounding the second barrel, once again look for a dirt clod in your third barrel pocket. Once you find it, sit deep in your saddle, grab your saddle horn and ride through the turn.
“By holding myself accountable to reaching those piles of dirt on the ground, it helps get my horse that half step extra to create a perfect barrel turn.”
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