Have you ever wondered how a few simple poles can transform a horse's balance and a rider's confidence?

In this how-to guide we set clear expectations for progressive schooling. We explain what a grid is in showjumping terms: a planned set of poles and fences at measured distances. This structured approach helps us train more consistently than random jumping and keeps sessions safe and repeatable.

We write for riders building confidence at smaller heights and for those seeking more adjustability at higher levels. We will focus on step-by-step exercises that start in trot, develop canter control, then add bounces and width. We emphasise quality over quantity and practical steps you can replicate at home.

We won’t cover one-off big fences or risky shortcuts. Instead, we offer clear progressions that respect the horse’s learning curve and our shared training goals. Consistency and patience will guide every stage.

Key Takeaways

• A grid is a measured set of poles and fences for steady progression.

• We start in trot, build canter control, then add bounces and width.

• Exercises focus on safety, repeatability and quality schooling time.

• The guide suits riders at varied levels seeking better adjustability.

• We avoid one-off big fences and favour gradual, reliable steps.

Why we use Grid Work to improve our showjumping

Repeating measured lines of poles and small fences makes the unfamiliar feel routine for horse and rider.

We use this approach because repetition builds predictability. A steady pattern helps us and our horse trust the question, so jumping becomes more consistent and less surprising.

Building confidence and consistency over fences

We teach a clear centre line so the horse stays straight and does not drift to a shoulder. Over time this reduces chips and long ones and creates calmer rounds.

Improving balance, elasticity and back strength through poles and grids

Short, frequent exercises strengthen the horse’s topline and boost elasticity. Mary King showed this helps horses use their back better and spring through their body.

Helping our horses judge distance and manage stride length on a line

• Measured lines teach a horse to read distance and organise its feet.

• We train stride control without chasing or placing, which improves a rideable canter.

• Progress comes from repeating the right feel over time, not bigger fences too soon.

Before we start: safe, effective gridwork training set-up

Getting the basics right at the start means more useful training time for horse and rider. We always warm up evenly on both reins in walk, trot and canter so the horse is supple and attentive before we introduce poles or fences.

Warming up and using a helper on the ground

Our warm-up is repeatable: five minutes walk, ten minutes trot with transitions, then light canter each way. Mary King recommended this even routine to balance both reins.

Having someone on the ground is safer. They move a pole, check distances, and adjust fence height so we keep the session flowing without rushed decisions from the saddle.

Centre line, distances and riding principles

We choose a clear centre line with enough approach and exit space, good footing and minimal distractions. Straight means shoulders and hips tracking to the centre of the poles and fences.

On distances, one-stride lines and bounces change with stride length and experience. We adjust for feel rather than forcing length by speed.

Keep impulsion not speed, soft hands, and a steady rhythm. Plan short breathers—walking on a long rein between efforts—so the horse stays relaxed and willing.

Beginner grid: pole to cross-pole to vertical for confidence and straightness

We begin with a simple line that teaches the horse to read distance and stay straight.

Set up a ground pole followed by a cross-pole, then a vertical at a one-stride distance between each element. Keep the layout tidy so the pattern is obvious to the horse. This basic exercise builds balance and a calm approach rather than height.

How we build the line

Measure one stride between cross-pole and vertical and place the ground pole so the horse lifts its feet. Start small and keep the centre clear.

How we ride it

We ride in an active trot with forwardness but never rushing. Eyes look to the centre of each fence. Our position stays balanced, hands soft, and we allow the neck to stretch over the obstacle.

Repeating and tweaking

Repeat the exercise on both reins to even up the horse and rider. If the horse rushes, add an extra ground pole between elements to lengthen the stride and control rhythm.

"Start modestly, value straightness and calmness, then raise the vertical only when the exercise is reliable."

Intermediate to advanced grids: adding an oxer and introducing bounces

Introducing an oxer and short bounces progresses the school in a measured way. We ask the horse to sit, push from behind and stay adjustable without making big heights the focus.

Progression grid for canter control

We extend the beginner line by adding an oxer after the vertical on the same one-stride distance. Mary King’s Exercise 2 showed this builds canter control and commitment while keeping fences sensible.

How we ride the line

Ride in an energetic canter with impulsion rather than speed. Keep the horse straight and centred, seat deep, and hands steady so the stride stays adjustable.

Making it a sensible test

Confirm the line first. Then turn the vertical into an oxer and add fillers thoughtfully. This sequence preserves confidence and avoids surprising the horse.

Advanced bounce grid

We start with two vertical bounces at around 70cm, then add a bigger bounce up to 90cm, followed by an oxer to a vertical on a one-stride line.

Introduce complexity fence by fence

Build the exercise one fence at a time. Take breathers between efforts. Keep hands low and soft through bounces and avoid pulling that upsets rhythm.

• Make the oxer wider to encourage the horse to sit and push from the hocks.

• Use fillers only after the line is trusted to add visual challenge without causing worry.

"Add complexity slowly; teach the question, don't test the answer."

Conclusion

A clear, staged pathway helps both horse and rider gain steady confidence and skill.

We began with a simple confidence exercise, added an oxer, then introduced bounces in a measured, horse-friendly way.

Keep safety rules front of mind: a correct warm-up, straightness to the middle, impulsion not speed, and planned breathers so our horses stay relaxed.

Progress is shown by consistency and quality — how rideable and calm the horse feels, not by height or haste.

• Set-up: check distances and footing.

• Approach: ride the centre, keep rhythm.

• Repeat on both reins for balance.

• Change one small thing each session.

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FAQ

What is the purpose of progressive grid exercises?

We use progressive exercises to build a horse's confidence and technique step by step. Starting with simple poles and small fences helps the horse learn to balance, judge distances and maintain a consistent rhythm before we add height, width or bounces.

How often should we include grid sessions in our training plan?

We recommend one focused session per week for most horses, supplementing general flatwork and pole work. For horses new to this work, we may start with shorter, more frequent sessions to build muscle and coordination without tiring them.

How do we warm up before using poles and lines?

We warm up in walk, trot and canter on both reins, ensuring the horse moves evenly and through the back. A steady, forward rhythm and active hindquarters are more important than speed; we prioritise relaxation and straightness before riding any line of fences.

Who should help with measuring distances and moving poles?

It’s safest to have an experienced person on the ground to check stride distances, move poles and adjust fences. They can ensure centres are correct and that bounce or one‑stride distances remain safe as we progress.

How do we set one‑stride lines, bounces and oxers safely?

We measure carefully from centre to centre, use appropriate poles and fillers, and start with small dimensions. For bounces we keep the rails low and introduce them fence by fence. When adding an oxer, we widen gradually so the horse learns to push from behind rather than rush.

What do we do if our horse rushes through the exercise?

We slow the process: add an extra ground pole, shorten the course, or return to trot work. Emphasising impulsion over speed, using transitions and riding a clear rhythm helps the horse rebalance and wait for our aids.

How do we progress a beginner pole‑to‑vertical exercise safely?

We begin with a ground pole, then a cross‑pole and a small vertical on one‑stride distances. We repeat on both reins, ride in an active trot or controlled canter, and only increase height gradually while monitoring the horse’s willingness and balance.

When is a horse ready for intermediate to advanced lines with bounces?

The horse should be straight, balanced and confident over single fences, with good impulsion from behind. We introduce bounces and oxers fence by fence, keeping the horse calm and responsive. If the horse loses rhythm, we simplify and rebuild.

How do we maintain straightness down a centre line?

We focus on accurate turns to the line, keep a consistent rhythm and look to our chosen spot. Using poles and simple markers alongside the line helps the horse travel evenly; we also practise riding the same exercise on both reins to even up musculature.

How long should a grid session last to avoid tiring the horse?

Sessions should be short and specific: usually 15–30 minutes of targeted jumping or pole work within a longer warm‑up and cool‑down. We watch for signs of fatigue — loss of rhythm, hollowing or rushing — and stop before the horse becomes tired.

Can we use fillers and flowers in these exercises?

Yes, but we introduce fillers thoughtfully. Start with low, familiar fillers to teach the horse to look and judge width. We avoid complicated decorations early on and only add visual tests once the horse is confident over plain poles and rails.

What riding principles make these exercises effective?

We ride with impulsion rather than speed, maintain soft, following hands and present a clear rhythm. Consistent aids, balanced transitions and sympathetic feel help the horse learn to sit, push from behind and use its body correctly over fences.

When should we give breathers during a session?

We give short breaks after a few repetitions or after a new element is introduced. These breathers keep the horse relaxed and willing; they also let us assess the horse’s balance and decide whether to progress or simplify the exercise.

How do we adjust exercises to improve a horse’s back strength and elasticity?

We use poles and small grids to encourage the horse to lift through its back and engage the hindquarters. Repeating low fences with correct rhythm, alternating reins and including transitions between efforts helps develop elasticity and core strength.

Are there common safety checks we must do before starting?

We check surface quality, secure standards, correct pole placement and clear approaches. Ensuring the horse is sound and properly shod, and that all participants understand the plan, reduces risk and makes the session effective.