Okay. You want a workout:

First: Set up a pattern like the one above. For theses exercises number the
first right-hand cone #1 and continue numbering the bottom left corner with
numbers 1-5. Turn right and number the top left corner numbers 6-10. Right turn,
continue with numbers 11 through 20. When done  number 1 and 20 mark the
bottom entry to the  "crossroads" pattern. I use 20 small plastic cones - it is
always a good idea to have a few extra cones! To determine how wide the lanes
should be, I measured the width of my chair (yard stick on the floor) and started
with 6 Inches extra on each side. Very quickly you can start making the lanes
narrower. The initial size really depends on the type of chair you are using.
Obviously a scooter is going to need a lot more space than a mid-wheel drive
chair. The length of each lane should be at least 25 feet long. The real
challenge is the square in the middle.

1) The "Cloverleaf" Pattern
  The first exercise is for testing straight driving and being able to go
straight after a turn and really just a big fat figure eight. Start at 1/20,
after 10/11 take a right turn, go all the way around and reenter 1/20, after 10/11
take a left turn, go all the way back to 1/20. Now try the same exercise
going backwards. Speed is not important. It is really a matter of getting the feel
of what you need to do.

  Second exercise is for tighter turns and turn timing. Tighter figure
eights. Start at 1/20, 10/11 right turn, reenter 15/16, 5/6 left turn, renter 1/20.
Try the same exercise going left. Start at 1/20, 10/11 left turn, reenter 5/6,
15/16 left turn, reenter 1/20. For a real nice tight figure eight try: 1/20 ,
13/18 right turn, 15/16 left turn, reenter 10/11, 13/18 left turn, 15/16
right turn, reenter 1/20.

I think these exercises are fun, challenging, and provide some thoughtful
consideration. Be careful not to sacrifice accuracy for speed. How are you
approaching the entry cones? Are your turns tight or wide? Which is it easier, going
right or going left? How fast can you go and still maintain control? And
lastly, can you do it going backwards? At speed?

Want more?

Mike Masters
Masterpeace Dog Training
masterslabs@aol.com