Jumping
Intermediate
30 min
Bounce Grid: Two Cross-Rails at the Collected Trot
Focus: Technique, Balance, Confidence
Equipment: 4 jump poles, 4 jump standards
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Set up 2 small cross-rails 9-10 feet apart (bounce distance).
- Approach at the collected trot. The horse will jump the first cross-rail, land, and immediately jump the second.
- There is no stride between the fences — the horse bounces from one to the next.
- Keep your upper body slightly behind vertical and maintain a steady leg contact.
- Allow your arms to follow the horse's mouth over each jump. Don't drop the contact.
- Repeat 4-6 times. Start with the cross-rails very low (12 inches) and gradually raise them.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Approaching too fast, causing the horse to jump too big and land too far into the bounce.
- The rider getting left behind on the first jump and interfering with the second.
- Not enough impulsion, causing the horse to stop between the two fences.
- Leaning too far forward, putting weight on the horse's forehand.
Variations & Progressions
- Add a third cross-rail for a three-element bounce.
- Raise the fences to verticals at 2 feet for more effort.
- Place a ground pole one stride (18 feet) before the bounce as a placing pole.
Tip: Bounces are the best gymnastic exercise. They teach the horse to use its body correctly without relying on speed.
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