Q: How do I use mirrors to improve my flatwork?
A: Mirrors are handy and can act like your eyes on the ground to not only see what your horse is doing but also to correct yourself. You can use them in so many different ways, and they can help you to see what you are feeling in the saddle.
One of the best uses for mirrors in the flatwork context is for straightness or riding lateral movements. To practice, try riding towards the mirror to help you see your horse’s frame, your angles and your position in the saddle. You can then make any corrections necessary! This will also help you get a visual of what you feel when you ride these movements so that you know how to correct them even without the mirrors.
Mirrors are also great for practising those all-important halts and learning to feel if a halt is square. Practise in front of the mirror until you can feel (without looking) if your horse is standing square or not.
Another great exercise is to draw or tape a line across your collarbones. This can allow you to see if your shoulders are level and correct them when they are not. There are obviously many variations you can try with this technique, and all of them will help you develop much better body awareness in the saddle.
Essentially, mirrors have many uses and are an excellent schooling tool. Enjoy using them!