The path to straightness with Jay Halim

If you read the last instalment, you’ll remember that straightness is one of the single qualities that can make the biggest impact on whether or not your horse jumps clear. And, if we’re being totally honest, it’s one of the easiest to neglect in favour of more exciting exercises when you’re working on your horse’s technique.

However, if you want to give yourself the best chance of leaving the poles safely nestled in their cups, it’s well worth the time it takes to get your horse’s body in order. Once you’re confident you’ve mastered this skill on the flat, take the challenge a step further by trying a new layout that’s as tough as it is rewarding.

Make your turns count

 Square turns are one of the simplest ways to boost the quality of your approach to a fence. Not only does it give your horse as much time as possible to digest what’s ahead of him, but it gives you the best opportunity to straighten up his body. But why is straightness so important? It’s simple – when your horse’s approach to a jump isn’t quite straight, he’ll push off more with one hindleg than the other. This is what commonly causes knocked poles, especially when the jump looks otherwise picture-perfect – even the tiniest wobble can have a big impact.

Exercise: Back to basics

Set it up On the line between E and B, place a line of three or four poles spaced 3m apart, ensuring the middle of the layout lies over X. To start with, set up guide poles on your approach and getaway as visual markers to keep straight. The great thing about this setup is that you can ride over it in trot or canter.

Pick up a copy of April Horse&Rider magazine, on sale 4 March 2021, to find out how to ride this exercise and progressing it.