Jumping
Beginner
15 min
Placing Pole to a Single Fence at the Walk
Focus: Technique, Confidence, Rhythm
Equipment: 3 jump poles, 2 jump standards
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Set up a small vertical with a placing pole 9 feet in front of it (one walk stride).
- Approach at the walk. The placing pole ensures you arrive at the correct takeoff distance every time.
- Walk over the placing pole. The horse will naturally take one stride and jump the fence.
- Focus on your position: heels down, eyes up, following hands, soft seat.
- The consistency of the placing pole allows you to work on your form without worrying about the distance.
- Repeat 6-8 times, gradually raising the fence as confidence grows.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Approaching in canter instead of trot, which changes the placing pole distance.
- Looking down at the placing pole instead of at the fence.
- Tensing up and grabbing the mane over the fence.
- Not keeping enough leg on the approach, causing the horse to stop.
Variations & Progressions
- Move the placing pole to 18 feet for a canter approach with one stride.
- Remove the placing pole after several successful attempts to test your independent judgment.
- Add a second fence one stride after the first for a gymnastic sequence.
Tip: Placing poles are training wheels for distance. Use them liberally, then gradually remove them as your eye develops.
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