There are an unlimited number of combination fences to set up for gymnastics on horseback, each of which tests a different area of horse and rider preparedness. The goal of jumping grids is to help jumper riders learn to stay out of their horses' mouths and to teach horses how to find their way through complicated obstacles.
There are numerous other benefits as well. They include:
- Slowing down the over-eager horse;
- Improving the jumper rider's form over fences;
- Establishing appropriate pace between combination fences;
- Building the horse's top line;
- Creating a center of focus for the horse; and
- Helping riders to spot their distances.
When jumping grids, horse and rider must work together in perfect harmony if they want to conquer combination fences in the correct number of strides. Furthermore, gridwork is designed to encourage the horse to jump correctly, and if the rider falls out of form, it is impossible to complete the exercise.
Riding Bounces
One of the first things jumper riders learn when jumping grids is the technique required for riding bounces. A bounce is a set of two or more jumps between which there is insufficient space for a full horse's stride. Upon landing after the first fence, the horse immediately gathers himself for the second.
The trick to riding bounces is keeping the horse straight down the center of the combination fences without getting in his way. Too much rider interference will lead to confusion on the part of the horse, and jumper riders must learn to trust their horses if they want to succeed.
When jumper riders first start riding bounces, it is best to set up a two-fence combination of cross-rails. Between the first fence and the second, the rider should mark off 11 or 12 feet, depending on the size of the horse and the length of his stride. This leaves approximately six feet for landing and six feet for taking off to the next jump.
Some jumper riders find it easier to stay in their two-point positions when riding bounces. This leaves little margin for error. Once they are more comfortable, however, they can sit (when cantering) or post (when trotting) in.
Extending Gridwork
As mentioned above, there are an infinite number of possibilities for jumping grids, and experienced jumper riders can use their imaginations to think up new combination fences. Until then, however, it is best to stick to simple gridwork.
Riders who are working on slowing their horses down can set up five or six bounces in a row, ascending from cross-rails to small verticals. This forces the horse to think about where he is putting his feet and to back off the fence rather than rushing it.
For a horse that is balking before fences and needs to step up his pace, it is a good idea to add one- and two-stride fences to combinations. This type of gridwork helps horses establish the proper stride in between combination fences. A one-stride should be set at a distance of approximately 24.5 feet, while a two-stride should be spaced at 37 feet.
Tips for Gymnastics on Horseback
The most important thing jumper riders need to remember for gymnastics on horseback is that proper position will improve success. If riders get left behind or drop too far forward, or lower their eyes, their horses will have a more difficult time getting through combination fences.
To achieve the proper position, riders should sink into their heels, hips and knees, and bring their hands square in front of them. They should have flexible elbows and soft eye, with constant contact on the reins.
It is also important to give the horse his head when jumping grids. The worst thing a rider can do is punish his horse by snatching him in the mouth; if necessary, riders should give an exaggerated release to ensure the horse has his head. This is the only way he will be able to find his way through.
 |
