Prepare for cross-country fun with Team PONY

Jumping cross-country’s super-exciting and sure to give you a huge adrenaline rush, but there’s so much more to it than you might think. From remembering all the right kit to jumping some tricky combinations, Team PONY’s here to get you fully prepared for your next big pony adventure.

Kit list

Got everything you need for your horsey day out? Use our checklist so you don’t forget the essentials!

For you:

• Hat
• Body protector
• Gloves
• Short riding whip

For your pony:

• Well-fitting tack
• Boots all round

Top Tip

It’s a good idea to pop a neck strap, martingale or breastplate on your pony when going cross-country. It’ll give you something to hold onto if you feel unbalanced.

Wake up!

Use your warm-up to check your pony’s listening and get him responsive to your aids. When you’re out on the cross-country course, it’s essential he’s tuned in to what you’re asking him to do.

Riding cross-country’s really different to showjumping – you’ll want a bigger canter and to be able to push on after each fence, so practise this and altering his canter strides while training at home. Use your leg, lift yourself out of the saddle and allow your hands forwards to encourage your pony to open up and lengthen his stride. Then, bring him back to a more collected canter by sitting deeper into your saddle and squeezing on the reins while still supporting him with your leg.

Pick up your copy of Spring PONY on sale 9 February 2022 to find out more about riding on a cross-country course