Jumping Lessons: One Exercise, Four Trainers, Four Ways

I once heard someone say, “You can get ready for the Olympics with just four standards and four poles,” and it really made me stop and think. Inspired by that idea, I started wondering how many ways you could use a simple line to tackle different scenarios.

In this exercise, four trainers each share their take on the same line. They set the distances and focus of each school, offering unique perspectives and priorities. It was fascinating to approach the concept with different “hats” on myself. It’s a bit more than just four standards and four rails, but not by much!

The Basic Setup:

(Measurements will change according to expert and exercise)

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Lynn Macyk

Lynn Macyk hails from Edmonton, AB and is a dedicated horse trainer with years of experience developing both horses and riders. Known for her patient, results-driven approach, Lynn specializes in creating tailored training programs that emphasize correct fundamentals, confidence-building, and partnership between horse and rider. She has a proven track record of success in guiding clients toward their goals, whether in the show ring or beyond.

Measurements: Oxer, 79’ bending to 33’ two-stride, straight 66’ to oxer

The riders will focus on refining their ability to come out of the corner with control and precision, allowing them to ride smoothly up to the oxer with an active step forward into contact. This will require them to engage their horses effectively, ensuring that they’re balanced and in front of the leg as they approach the jump. As they continue to the careful double of verticals, riders must remain still and composed in the saddle, helping their horses to approach with mindfulness and control for a smooth, balanced jump.

No matter which direction riders approach the line from, they’ll need to maintain a rhythm and be adaptable, and they will need to be ready to adjust in or out on the bending line depending on how they jump in. This skill in adapting stride length and shape is crucial to making the bending line work effectively. The line will ride differently depending on the direction, requiring adjustments in timing and positioning, even though the physical distance remains the same. This exercise will encourage riders to anticipate and respond to subtle shifts in each approach, developing a versatile and adaptable jumping strategy.

Alexander Grayton

Alexander Grayton of Calgary, AB is a skilled horse trainer and accomplished equestrian with a strong foundation in competitive riding at the highest end of our sport and horse development. Known for his analytical approach and keen attention to detail, Alexander focuses on cultivating balance, precision, and trust in every horse and rider partnership. With extensive experience, he is committed to helping his clients achieve their goals through thoughtful training programs tailored to individual needs.

Measurements: Oxer, 66’ bending to 22.5’ one-stride, straight 58’ to oxer

As I look at the jumps on paper I see the possibility to make a dynamic exercise that will address nearly all of the components of a modern show jumping course. Starting with the diagonal oxer out of the corner, the rider will have to be precise in their planning and execution of the turn and approach to make sure their horse lands on their exact prescribed track. For more advanced riders, the oxer can become bigger and wider, putting more emphasis on the impulsion and quality of gallop through the turn, while maintaining the landing line – more gallop obviously increases the risk of having to make bigger corrections on landing.

The 66’ on a bending line will require both a subtle shortening of stride and a subtle shaping of the track in order to make 5 strides to a slightly gymnastic feeling 1-stride. The 1-stride demands patience and body control from horse and rider. The 58’ afterwards to the oxer will require the horse stepping back up to the rider’s hands – but not through – to have a powerful but composed jump at a square and wide oxer. Square to test that the horse remains balanced as the rider steps him up to the jump, and wide to make sure the rider is asking for enough impulsion to cover the back rail.

Lynne Stephenson-Wachter

Lynne Stephenson of Bowden, AB is an accomplished rider with a wealth of experience and a passion for excellence in the equestrian world. Known for her beautiful style, Lynne has honed her skills all her life, consistently showcasing precision, and grace. Whether in competition or training, she is committed to achieving harmony and success in every ride.

Measurements: Oxer, 72’ bending to 32.5’ two-stride, straight 61’ to oxer

When setting up this line, I would take into account a couple of outside factors: the size of the arena and whether we’re schooling for an indoor or outdoor setting.

For greener horses (between 0.90m and 1.20m), I would incorporate ground poles to create a “tunnel” that reinforces straightness. These poles serve as guides, helping both horses and riders naturally understand the exercise. We’d start with small jumps, asking the horses to add a step as they enter the lines, complete two strides, and continue with an additional step. I would have them ride through this exercise in both directions to develop consistency.

This setup helps the rider develop awareness of where they are landing (left, centre, or right), allowing them to approach quietly and in control. From there, they maintain straightness with a slight press for two strides, then reconnect for the added step out of the line.

Once the initial exercise is mastered, we’ll introduce a change in pace and stride focus. The horse will now come in with a more forward step, performing the correct stride sequence of 4-2-5 or 5-2-4. Here, the two strides should feel steady, with an emphasis on straightness.

I love this exercise because it works on multiple skills essential to success in the sport. It practices lengthening and shortening, maintaining straightness, and cultivating track awareness by helping the rider gauge whether they’re too far in or out. The repetition also aids the horses in developing consistency and confidence over jumps.

Channay Lloyd

Channay Lloyd of Country Lane Show Stables in Ladner, BC is a talented equestrian and dedicated trainer with a passion for developing both horses and riders to their fullest potential. With a thoughtful and progressive approach, Channay focuses on building strong foundations, confidence, and effective communication between horse and rider.

Measurements: Oxer, 58’ bending to 10’ bounce, straight 33’ to oxer

The premise of the exercise I have designed is to teach the horse to stretch his topline and execute correct knee angle over jumps in a classical style. To encourage the horse to stretch his back and neck I would build the jumps with fill on both sides (using barrels and boxes), and I would make the bounce a tight distance to encourage the horse to rock back on his haunches.

Start with a small but wide trot jump out of the diagonal corner, bending in 58’ to a 10’ bounce set relatively small (2’6” high or so) with fill on both sides. Continue straight in 33’ to a slightly taller and wide oxer. Repeat a few times, allowing the horse to learn and understand the exercise, helping them find the way to stay relaxed and utilize their topline. The form should improve as he stretches his neck more and finds the way for the knees to come up past a 90-degree angle from the shoulder.