Gridwork for ponies and young riders
Building confidence and skill - Learn about gymnastic grids with Poppy and Benny!
Skill, trust, and training create great partnerships. Grids like these are one of the most effective tools for developing rhythm, balance, and confidence in both horse and rider... and they're fun too! SCROLL DOWN FOR THE VIDEO TUTORIAL!
What makes a gymnastic grid so effective?
A gymnastic grid is a series of fences on set distances that help riders and ponies (adults and horses not excluded!) focus on technique rather than speed or size. By removing the need to “find a distance,” grids encourage ponies and horses to use their bodies correctly while learning to think for themselves and build confidence as each fence is met on an even stride from a rhythmical trot or canter.
Bounces are two fences set at approx. 9 feet apart for small ponies like Benny. As part of a gymnastic grid they help your pony and rider develop quick reflexes, confidence and coordination.
One-stride distances (typically approx. 18 feet apart for smaller ponies) add a rhythm challenge, giving the pony enough room to take a full stride before the next fence. This encourages balance, rhythm, and adjustability, all key ingredients for any successful partnership.
The sequence in the video below: A bounce on entry followed by one-stride to another one-stride. This can be ridden in either direction, so also off the left rein riding one-stride, to one-stride and finishing with the bounce.
Together, grids promote accuracy on approach, straightness through the fences, responsiveness, and communication between rider and pony. The pony learns to stay focused and confident, while the rider learns to maintain a quiet position and consistent contact.
Why grids are perfect for young riders
For young riders, gridwork is an engaging and confidence-building experience. Because the distances are set for success, riders can focus on feel rather than worry about missing a distance. It teaches them:
- Balance and posture - Keeping their upper body and lower leg still
- Timing and rhythm - Learning to "feel" the natural stride pattern develop
- Trust and partnership - Understanding how their pony moves and responds, developing trust
- It’s also a safe way to progress jumping height or complexity
- A structured pattern helps prevent rushing or over-jumping, making it ideal for both learning and fun
Make it fun and educational
Grids don’t have to be repetitive, they can be creative and playful.
- Like Poppy and Benny, try to develop the fun (when safe) by taking away stirrups and reins, maybe even both together for those who are REALLY experienced at grids!
- Mixing the fence type, cross pole to enter centrally, to an upright, then maybe even a filler to finish
The goal isn’t just to jump bigger, it’s to develop understanding, strength, and partnership, and when done right, it feels like play for both rider and pony.
Poppy and Benny show what’s possible when skill meets joy. That’s the magic of good training, turning exercises into confidence, and confidence into success.
If you’re looking to improve your own riding, grab a few poles, set up a simple grid, and have fun with it. Every bounce and stride brings you closer to becoming a more connected, capable rider, and helps your pony become the best partner possible.
@bluechipfeed Part 1: Fun gymnastics exercise with @team.pink.equestrian and her lovely pony, Benny! 🐴 Poppy shows us a fun exercise she likes to do with her 10-year-old pony Benny.🐎 Benny is powered by Blue Chip Native Feed Balancer!💙 #horse #equestrian #showing #horseriding #horseshow ♬ Walking On A Dream - Wall_of_Sound
