Hobby horse show jumping: courses, rules and first jumps

How a course works

A course has a start, obstacles in a set order and a finish. Numbers identify the next fence; the organiser’s plan and markings establish the direction. Walk the course before attempting it, find clear lines and check the space beyond each jump.

Remember connections as well as numbers: first fence, turn, second fence. Before starting, look along the first approach. Continue along the route after each obstacle instead of turning sharply immediately beyond the pole.

Choosing obstacles

A ground pole helps establish the route. A low cross pole highlights the middle, while an upright provides a single vertical obstacle. Spread fences involve different space requirements and are unnecessary for a first session. Start with one straightforward design.

Use stable supports and a light, removable pole intended for the activity. Do not tie the pole to the stands or replace it with a taut rope. Keep the approach, landing and turning areas clear; choose a height that suits the participant and the space.

The first approach and jump

Walk the line over a ground pole several times first. Look ahead, keep a comfortable rhythm and hold the hobby horse so the stick does not obstruct your steps. Try a suitable low obstacle only when the approach feels comfortable. Do not increase height, pace and turn difficulty together.

Allow space to continue for several comfortable steps after landing. If you need to brake before a wall or furniture, the space is unsuitable for that exercise. If the approach repeatedly breaks down, return to a marked route without a jump and practise the line separately.

A three-element practice course

This is a practice example, not an official competition course. Place three numbered markers with broad turns between them. Walk the whole route first; if space permits, replace markers with ground poles. Choose actual spacing on site rather than copying the scale of the drawing.

1. Start with a straight approach to marker 1.
2. Continue through a clear area and follow a broad turn towards marker 2.
3. Find a straight approach to marker 3 and finish beyond it without an abrupt stop.
4. Repeat the same order. Add one low jump only after the route feels familiar.

Rules, penalties and timing

Results depend on the event rules: the organiser specifies faults, timing, style marks, jump-offs and tie-breaking. Do not assume every event uses the same number of fences or knockdown penalty. The IHHF provides a separate show jumping document to read alongside the chosen event’s schedule.

For example, the UK Hobby Horse Association FAQ describes eight fences: four assessed for style and four in a timed section. This is one organiser’s format. Before entering, check class height, age group, fault rules, equipment requirements and the course-walk arrangements.

Working on common mistakes

If you forget the order, walk the route and say the numbers aloud. If you cut a turn, outline a broad arc with markers. If the rhythm breaks before a fence, remove the height and repeat the line. Repeated knockdowns call for a simpler exercise, not extra speed. Work on one cause at a time.

Frequently asked questions

Continue practising