Jumping exercises horse 2
Author: Elin Åkerholm
Updated: 2024.10.25
Jumping exercises for horse and rider can help improve their flexibility, balance, and rhythm. This exercise can be adapted to suit the level of the horse and rider, supporting a smoother and more harmonious ride. Peder Fredricson, founder of Bhoof, uses this jumping exercise to improve better coordination and balance between horse and rider, while also helping to establish an even rhythm before and after the jump.
Jumping Exercise for Flexibility, Balance, and Rhythm
About the jumping exercise: Improving flexibility and rhythm
This jumping exercise is designed to develop the horse’s flexibility and the rider’s sense of rhythm. By working on balance and coordination, the teamwork improves, and the rider trains their position and communication. The exercise also teaches the horse to wait for the jump, promoting a controlled approach and safe take-off. Additionally, it helps to find and maintain an even rhythm. This is an excellent exercise that can be adapted for horses and riders at all levels.
Horse in the video
- Name: H&M Bahia
- Gender: Mare
- Age: 10 years
- Level: 1.60m show jumping
Peder’s equipment for this jumping exercise
Contact us at info@bhoof.com to be added to the waitlist for out-of-stock products.
Arena and surface for the exercise
- Dimensions: 70×30 meters
- Surface: Fiber sand
Jump height in the exercise
Start with a lower height to warm up your horse and then gradually increase it. Peder began with the oxer at approximately 50 cm and finished with it at around 1 meter.
Goals of the jumping exercise
For the horse
- Flexibility and balance.
- Gymnastic training.
- Improved ability to find calm before and after the jump.
For the rider
- Development of balance.
- Improve seat, hands, and legs.
- Better flexibility and rhythm.
- Enhanced teamwork and communication with the horse.
Jump distances – adjust for your horse
- Horse: 8 – 8.5 meters (26 – 28 feet)
- D-Pony: 7.25 – 7.75 meters (24 – 25.5 feet)
- C-Pony: 6.5 – 7 meters (21-23 feet)
- B-Pony: 5.75 – 6.25 meters (19 -20.5 feet)
Adjust these distances based on your horse’s stride length and the height of the oxer in the middle. A large stride may require a longer distance, while a shorter stride may need a shorter distance. The oxer’s height can also impact the distance, with a higher oxer requiring more space.
Easy
Jump the first raised pole in front of the oxer on a 10-meter circle inward. Then ride outside and circle around the whole exercise before returning to make a 10-meter circle over the second raised pole behind the oxer. Repeat in both directions.
Medium
Jump the first raised pole in front of the oxer on a 10-meter circle inward. Then, continue by jumping the pole again, circling around the oxer, and following a broken line to meet the raised pole behind it. Finish with a 10-meter inward circle over the pole in the back. Repeat in both directions.
Hard
Jump the first raised pole in front of the oxer and make a 10-meter circle inward. Continue over the pole again and then approach the oxer with two strides, in a calm, steady rhythm. Then jump over the next canter pole and make a 10-meter circle inward before jumping over the pole again. Repeat the exercise in the opposite direction.
Widen the oxer for more strength training and increased difficulty.
Repetitions and Frequency of the Jumping Exercise
Adjust the number of repetitions based on your horse’s fitness and strength. Allow the horse to rest between repetitions, checking its breathing. The horse should return to normal breathing before repeating the exercise.
Frequency
This exercise can be done once a week to once a month, depending on your training plan and goals.
Tips for a Successful Jumping Exercise According to Peder Fredricson
- Before entering the exercise, find the correct tempo on a large circle or along the rail.
- Maintain an even and calm rhythm throughout the exercise.
- Adapt the exercise to the horse’s capacity and condition on the day.
- Always consult with your trainer to ensure the best possible results.
- If unsure about how to structure training with your horse, we recommend speaking with your trainer.
This jumping exercise can help you and your horse find a steady tempo before and after obstacles. You and your horse will have the chance to improve your balance, rhythm, and teamwork, leading to better performance when competing.
Good luck!
Feel free to share your practice and tag us @wearebhoof
