Scope Scope to burn burn

Improve your pony’s showjumping technique with Pony Nuts!

There are loads of elements that make up the perfect showjumping round, from your pony’s canter rhythm to your balance in the saddle, and working on all aspects will give you the best chance of success. But do you know how to improve your pony’s jumping technique? Here are my three fave exercises that’ll do just the job.

Top tip

Position your fence down the long side of the arena, making sure you can approach it on both reins so your pony works evenly.

Top tip

Be sure your pony is thoroughly warmed up before trying these exercises. It’s important that he’s responsive to your aids and working actively.

Cross-poles

Aim of the game: Cross-poles are great for getting your pony to work on his straightness, not only on the approach and get away, but also as he bascules over the fence. The middle of the cross gives you a point to aim for, too, which is helpful!

Set it up: You’ll need two wings or blocks and two poles – start by keeping the cross-pole small. How to ride it: Cross-poles are inviting for ponies, but that doesn’t mean you can switch off and let him do all the work. Remember to think about your approach, allowing plenty of time to find your straight line to the middle. Channel your pony by pressing with both legs and keeping an even contact down both reins. Keep your eyes up and focused on a marker the other side of the fence.

Take it to the next level: When you’re ready, have a go at high-sided cross-poles – they’ll give your pony extra encouragement to keep his body straight and tuck up his legs when jumping. Always increase the height gradually.

V-poles

Aim of the game: V-poles are perfect for encouraging your pony to jump carefully because they act as a visual cue, like a filler, to ask him to lift his front end higher and stretch his head and neck down.

Set it up: Change your fence into an upright and then place a pair of extra poles with one end on the jump and the other on the floor to create an upside-down V. Keep the V wide to start with.

How to ride it: Some ponies can find V-poles off-putting or spooky, but by keeping your leg on and the poles extra wide at first, he’ll get the hang of them in no time. Channel him straight towards the middle of the fence, like you did with the cross-poles, then be ready for your pony to jump a little bigger as he works harder to be more careful – allowing with your hands and lifting yourself out of the saddle to follow his movement.

Take it to the next level: As you feel more confident, slowly bring the poles closer together until they’re touching – this will help create a neater bascule.