Go arena cross-country schooling

Wondering how to introduce your horse to arena cross-country? Eventer Felicity Collins explains how to structure your first session

You’ve chosen your venue and put in the homework, so now it’s time to go for your first arena cross-country session. However, with so much to look at and so many things to introduce your horse to, it can be difficult to know where to start. Worry not – by following my tips, you’ll be on track for a fun-filled session.

You set the tone for the ride from the moment you unload your horse, so allow yourself plenty of time so you can get him ready in a calm manner. To have a productive session, it’s important your horse is relaxed – you’ll struggle to teach him anything if he’s stressed or distracted.

Factors to consider that might impact the time it takes to relax your horse include...

Does he feel relaxed or is he slightly on edge? You might need to spend more time walking your horse around, in-hand and ridden, if he’s on his toes

This isn’t just limited to horses – are there lots of people around who are also hiring facilities, or maintenance work going on? This can distract your horse so they’re key things to be aware of as you structure your session

Are there banners up around the arena? What are the surroundings like? Where’s the lorry park? These are all questions you need to ask yourself, and remember it’s okay to stick to areas with the least distractions to start with

Try not to put too much pressure on your horse – or yourself – to perform, particularly on your first visit. It might be that the most productive thing you achieve is getting your horse relaxed enough to warm up, work well and pop a few fences before calling it a day.

While we’re talking about setting the tone from the beginning, it’s important to praise your horse for any positive steps he makes. A quick scratch on the neck or a “good boy” when he gets it right is plenty. Entering a new arena, going past something spooky, responding to your aids – these are all behaviours worth recognising and rewarding.