EVENING SHOW JUMPING
Friday 01 August 2025
Entries close in 1 day
21 upcoming events
Next event:
31/07/2025 Cross Country Hire at Thornton Lodge Farm
Find out more ..
In show jumping, it takes only seconds to determine whether a jump is successful. A strong show jumper combines power with precision, endurance and mental stability. These characteristics determine how reliably it clears obstacles and responds to changing demands.
A show jumper's quality is not determined solely by its physical abilities. A balanced temperament and mental maturity characterise every round on the course. Stress-resistant animals react calmly to unfamiliar situations, remain focused and respond reliably to aids. Studies show that horses with a calm disposition make fewer mistakes and are less likely to suffer injury-related absences. Young animals develop these characteristics gradually when they are continuously encouraged and not overwhelmed. Training is very important in this regard. Horses that experience clear structures and gather positive experiences build trust and process new impressions better.
Training methods that offer variety also promote mental flexibility. These characteristics pay off especially in demanding courses where quick decisions and precise reactions are required. Handpicked horses with potential often already have a stable character base, which is further consolidated in training and later makes the difference in competition. When selecting horses, breeders pay attention not only to bloodlines and athletic performance, but also to behavioural characteristics. This combination increases the chance of finding a horse that is physically and mentally impressive in the long term.
The quality of a jump depends heavily on technique. Horses with powerful hindquarters push off efficiently and gain the necessary height without wasting energy. Studies show that experienced show jumpers choose their take-off angle more precisely, resulting in shorter ground contact times. These movements relieve pressure on the joints and increase endurance on the course. Trainers pay particular attention to the action of the front legs, as keeping the legs close together reduces obstacle faults. Even gallop strides before take-off also facilitate preparation and improve rhythm. Video analyses and kinematic measurements provide information about small deviations that can be specifically corrected during training. Horses that optimally combine technique and power master even complex combinations with a high degree of consistency.
The performance of a show jumper is based on the interaction of aerobic and anaerobic energy supply. While aerobic endurance provides the body with a stable supply over a longer period of time, the anaerobic system provides the necessary explosiveness for powerful jumps. Horses with a strong aerobic base build up less lactate and remain performant for longer. At the same time, every jump requires a short, maximum energy output from the anaerobic system, which only well-trained muscle fibres can provide. Trainers promote both systems through targeted methods.
Horses that combine aerobic stability and anaerobic power are more resilient on the course. They tire more slowly, execute jumps more precisely and remain consistently powerful over several rounds.
Genetic factors can be used early on to select potential show jumpers. Research shows that certain movement parameters, such as free jumping ability, are genetically determined. Breeders carefully evaluate these characteristics to select horses with a stable foundation for show jumping. A combination of targeted breeding, structured rearing and later training creates the best conditions for a long-term sporting career.
0 entries £0.00