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Check out our six ways to maximise your cross-country schooling sesh
Check out our six ways to maximise your cross-country schooling sesh
When the ground is spot on, taking your fave pony cross-country schooling is a must! But how can you get the most out your XC hire? Follow our guide and you’re sure to have your best ride yet!
It’s essential, and part of the rules, that you wear an up-to-date jockey skull and body protector when going cross-country.
did you know? you know?
Lots of pros wear air jackets when XC riding for extra protection, but they must be worn over a body protector.
did you know?did you know?
Riding in a two-point position will help you stay in balance and allow your pony to move more freely.
As with any training session, it’s important you get your pony warmed up, thinking forwards and listening to your aids. You’re likely to have lots of space to warm up in, so use it wisely by riding lots of large circles and turns to get your pony supple and ready for action. 1 1 1 2 2
The quality of your pony’s canter is essential for jumping – whether you’re showjumping or going cross-country – so in your warm-up, spend some time focusing solely on canter. Pick up a two-point position and practise shortening and lengthening your pony’s strides to check his adjustability. Encourage him to stride forwards positively and in an established rhythm because this will help you feel more confident and nail the perfect stride into each jump.
Flatwork isn’t everyone’s favourite activity (jumping and cantering through the countryside is waaay more fun!), but, with a few simple polework layouts, you can jazz up your schooling sessions! Here are some ideas to get you inspired!
You could set up a course of poles laid out in a variety of ways to ride over – then include different paces, plus lots of turns, circles and transitions.
Set it up… Place one pole on the floor anywhere in your arena, then place another pole at a right angle to it leaving a gap between them.
This exercise is good for…
• transitions – ride different transitions and change up the pace between, before, after and even over the poles!
• straightness – ride parallel to each pole and see if you can maintain your line after it to keep your pony’s straightness in check
Take it one step further…
If you’re feeling confident you could have a go at riding large loops in canter to connect the poles and try asking your pony for a flying change as he travels over each pole.
