Welcome to your June coaching lesson, Jump Club members! This month, before we get into the course map, we're talking about the fences themselves — because knowing what you're jumping is just as important as knowing how to jump it. Let's go!
When your coach or a course designer says "there's an oxer on fence 4 and a combination at fence 8," you want to know exactly what that means before you even get on your horse. Understanding your fences means you can plan your approach, choose your pace, and walk the course like a pro.
The Basics - Jumps you will see at every level
The classic beginner fence — and there's nothing wrong with that! A crossrail has two poles crossed in the middle, forming an X shape. The lowest point is the centre, which naturally guides your horse to jump straight through the middle. Brilliant for building confidence and finding your rhythm. You'll see these at Levels 1–3.
💡 Riding Tip: Stay looking up and keep your weight in your heels — let the centre of the X guide your horse straight.
Ground poles and cavaletti are your best friends when you're starting out — and honestly, they never get old. Cavaletti are poles held up by small blocks, usually set low. They teach rhythm, straightness, and stride. Even elite riders school over poles every single week.
💡 Riding Tip: Count your strides out loud as you trot or canter through — it trains your brain and your eye at the same time!
A vertical is a straight up-and-down fence — poles or planks stacked on top of each other, all in the same line. No width, just height. Sounds simple, but verticals actually require a very accurate approach. Too fast and your horse will flatten over it; too slow and they'll chip in close. Verticals reward good pace and a straight line. These appear from Level 3 upward.
💡 Riding Tip: Pick a spot on the fence between the top two poles and ride straight to it. A focused eye means a focused horse.