Jumping
Beginner
10 min
Course Walk Simulation at the Walk
Focus: Track Planning, Strategy, Mental Prep
Equipment: 4-8 jump poles, 4-8 jump standards
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Set up a 4-6 fence course. Before riding, walk the course on foot.
- Walk the track you plan to ride, counting strides between related fences.
- Identify where you need to change leads, where to open the stride, and where to collect.
- Look for potential problem spots: tight turns, challenging distances, unfamiliar approaches.
- Walk the course at least twice. The second walk should confirm your plan.
- Only mount and ride after you have a clear mental picture of every stride.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not walking the course at all and trying to figure it out while riding.
- Walking the course once and not remembering the plan mid-ride.
- Not counting strides, so distances come as surprises.
- Planning an overly ambitious track instead of a safe, efficient one.
Variations & Progressions
- Walk courses at horse shows before your round for real-world practice.
- Have someone quiz you on the course after walking it to test your memory.
- Walk the course backward to see it from a different perspective.
Tip: Professional show jumpers walk every course twice. If it's good enough for them, it's good enough for you. Never skip the course walk.
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