Gridwork with Grady: Using a Swedish Oxer

Here we have a grid set with a vertical to a one stride, to a Swedish oxer, to a one stride, to a vertical. A swedish oxer includes 4 standards and at least 2 poles.  The poles on the front set of standards are set with one side higher than the other.  The second set … Continue reading Gridwork with Grady: Using a Swedish Oxer

Gridwork with Grady: Trot Poles

Trotting Poles is a very basic exercise and underestimated exercise that is very beneficial to young and older horses alike.  I felt the need to include it in our gridwork as it seems to get left in the dust even though it's a great exercise used almost daily. For one, it is a great tool … Continue reading Gridwork with Grady: Trot Poles

Gridwork With Grady: Feeling and Setting Leads While Jumping

Another addition to the 'Gridwork with Grady' Series! Check out this simple exercise great for horse and rider.

Gridwork with Grady: Trot Poles to an Oxer

One of my favorite exercises for strengthening a horses jump: Trot poles to an oxer. Engages the hind end, sets the pace and assists the distance. I like to put considerable height once the horse understands the exercise. Grady is only 5 and a little behind the learning curve so 2'9" is plenty difficult. Soon, … Continue reading Gridwork with Grady: Trot Poles to an Oxer

Going Solo: My Gamble in the Jumper Ring

I've struggled with confidence in the jumper ring.  I make mistakes that I KNOW I shouldn't be making and I kick myself for doing so.  The fact that making those mistakes had become a subconscious ritual for me, was making me a bad rider.

Raising the Client-Trainer Standard

I have often said that choosing and keeping the right trainer is like dating.  When you first start riding, you probably pick the first one you find, not knowing what to look for.  As you start to learn a little more about the sport, you begin to broaden your horizons.  It may be that your … Continue reading Raising the Client-Trainer Standard