Jumping exercises for small arenas
Jumping exercises for small arenas
If you’re looking for jumping exercises for small arenas that are simple to set up but still effective, this one is a great option. The layout is designed to help your arena feel more open, with smooth turns and only one related distance to think about, making it ideal for riders or horses that are still building confidence.
The exercise includes a double combination, which adds a technical element without making the setup complicated. It’s a useful way to prepare for competitions, as combinations are a common feature in show jumping courses. Practicing them at home, especially in a smaller space, helps both horse and rider develop rhythm, control, and confidence.
What makes this exercise so enjoyable is how nicely it rides. The smooth turns help the course flow, making the arena feel more spacious than it actually is. This is especially useful if you don’t have access to a large arena but still want to practice important skills like lines, turns, and combinations.
This setup is also very suitable for novice riders or horses that are still relatively green. It offers enough technical challenge to improve accuracy and control but remains straightforward enough to keep the experience positive and fun for both horse and rider.
If you’ve been looking for jumping exercises for small arenas that improve your skills without overwhelming you, this one is perfect. It’s simple, effective, and will give you and your horse a rewarding training session.
How to set it up
This is a simple setup, but it’s important to take your time placing everything correctly. Make sure the jumps don’t block each other and that you can ride smooth, flowing turns between them. A good tip is to lay out the poles first before building the jumps — that way, you can double-check your spacing and angles before committing to the setup.
Step 1: Related Distance on the Top Long Side
- Set up an oxer to a vertical along the top long side of your arena.
- You’ll be jumping this line in both directions, so make sure it’s built properly for that.
- It rides on four strides, which means it should measure 20 paces between the jumps.
Step 2: Diagonal Double Combination
- Build a vertical to an oxer diagonally across your arena.
- This is a one-stride combination, so measure 8 paces between the jumps.
- Be careful not to build it too close to the arena’s edge — you’ll be carrying some pace out of the combination, so give yourself enough space for the turn.
Step 3: Angled Oxer
- Place an oxer at an angle, making sure you can get a smooth approach and ride away cleanly.
- You’ll also be jumping this oxer from both directions, so set it up accordingly.
Step 4: Vertical by the Bottom Long Side
- Set up a vertical near the bottom long side of the arena.
Step 5: Canter Poles for Warm-up
Place two canter poles in the middle of the arena, designed to be ridden on a circle. Check that the space allows you to do this comfortably.
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