Performance progression: gridwork

In the second part of my skill-boosting series, we’re going to turn our polework layout from last month into an epic grid! While rhythm and straightness are important aspects of gridwork, adding in fences will test and improve our pony’s strength and agility, which means you’ll be set for success.

Did you know?

Incorporating gridwork into your pony’s exercise routine will help boost his strength and jumping skills!

Set it up

Build this grid on the centre line so you can approach on both reins. Position the first three canter poles 2.7–3m apart, followed by your fences one stride apart (depending on your pony’s stride length, this will be 6.1–7.3m).

Place guide rails between the jumps, but start with them 2m apart and reduce to 1.2m after your pony has jumped happily through the grid once – if they’re too close and your pony wobbles off the line he might stand on one and injure himself!

TOP TIP

Remember to adjust the distances to suit your pony’s stride length, otherwise it will be extra tricky.

TOP TIP

Keep the fences lower than you usually jump to boost your confidence levels! You don’t need to be jumping big fences when training, as it’s all about developing strength and technique!

Find out how to ride the grid and use Ellie’s top tips in Spring PONY – grab your copy today!