Jumping
Intermediate
25 min
Oxer Introduction
Focus: Technique, Scope, Power
Equipment: 4 jump poles, 4 jump standards
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Set up a small ascending oxer: front rail at 18 inches, back rail at 2 feet, with a 12-inch spread.
- The ascending shape (lower in front, higher in back) helps the horse judge the width.
- Approach at the working canter with strong impulsion. Oxers require more forward energy than verticals.
- The horse needs to jump both up AND across. Your leg must stay active to the fence.
- Allow your hands to follow the horse's neck. Oxers produce a rounder, more forward jump arc.
- Repeat 4-5 times, then gradually widen the spread by 3-6 inches.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not enough impulsion, causing the horse to jump flat and possibly hit the back rail.
- Pulling on the reins at the last moment, which shortens the horse's stride and causes a poor takeoff.
- Setting the spread too wide before the horse is comfortable with the concept.
- The rider not following the horse's motion over the wider jump.
Variations & Progressions
- Progress from ascending oxer to square oxer (both rails the same height).
- Add an oxer to a gymnastic line as the final fence.
- Practice oxers on bending lines for course simulation.
Tip: Oxers need forward energy. Ride them with more leg than a vertical. The horse needs to push off the ground with power to clear the width.
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