ADAPT HIS STRIDE
Being able to control your horse’s stride is essential when jumping and encourages him to be able to adapt in changing situations. This exercise uses a pole before and after the fence to help your horse learn to become more balanced and maintain his shape over the jump. SET IT UP: Put your upright at a height you’re comfortable with and then add a canter pole three walking steps before your fence, and another three steps after your jump. HOW TO RIDE IT: 1. Go large around the school to establish a bouncy canter. 2. Once you’ve established your canter, look ahead for your jump. 3. Turn your horse straight towards the jump, keeping him between your leg and your hand on your approach. 4. Sit up straight as you go over the pole and then into your jumping position over the jump. 5. Sit up straight over the back pole and ride back towards the track. 6. Change rein and repeat. THE NEXT LEVEL: Push the back pole out to six steps to encourage your horse to stride out after the jump.