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Drill

Quiet Crest Release Ladder

Automatic following release

IntermediateShow Jumping15 min
Purpose

Develop a soft, elastic release that supports the horse's neck without dropping contact.

Setup

Three small cross-rails on a 20m circle, each 5 strides apart.

Step-by-step
  1. 01Trot the first cross-rail with a long crest release.
  2. 02Canter the second with a short crest release.
  3. 03Canter the third with an automatic release.
  4. 04Repeat three times each direction, focusing on elbow softness.
Common mistakes
  • Throwing the reins.
  • Dropping the contact for two strides after landing.
  • Pinching with the knee.
Success looks like

Horse maintains a steady, soft rhythm through all three releases.

Add to plan

Schedule this drill in your training plan for the next ride that focuses on automatic following release.

DifficultyIntermediate
Duration15 min
Steps4
DisciplineShow Jumping