Building Confidence Over Fences: A Rider’s Guide

The trainer enthusiastically cheers for the clients during a dynamic outdoor training session.

Confidence over fences isn’t an on/off switch—it’s a layered, trainable skill that develops through correct basics, clear communication, and thoughtfully scaled challenge. Whether you’re returning to jumping, moving up a division, or polishing your ride before the show season, confidence is built—not borrowed.

At Sage Creek Stables, we approach confidence as a progression of preparation + repetition + support. Here’s how to build it the right way—for both you and your horse.

1. Confidence Starts on the Flat

Before raising rails, check your fundamentals:

• Reliable transitions off light aids

• Adjustable stride within gaits

• Straightness and accuracy on lines

• Responsiveness to half-halts

“Ride a course on the flat before you ever jump it. If you can’t keep the line on the flat, you’ll lose it with fences.”

2. Use Poles & Cavaletti to Build Trust

Poles remove pressure and help sharpen track and rhythm. Start with:

• Single trot poles

• Raised cavaletti

• Canter pole to cross-rail

• Canter pole—vertical—canter pole

These help horses stay honest and riders relax into their feel.

3. Gymnastics: Where Feel Replaces Fear

Set lines help both horse and rider focus on balance and position. A favorite confidence-building line:

• Trot in: Cross-rail

• 1 stride: Small vertical

• 2 strides: Small oxer

Repeat until relaxed—then raise one element at a time.

4. Smart Scaling Builds Long-Term Confidence

We use the 70% Rule: work where you're 70% confident, then stretch just enough to grow.

• Raise one fence at a time

• Add fill, bending lines, or combinations slowly

• Practice show-ring challenges at low height

5. Ride the Rhythm, Not the Distance

Perfect distances come from good canter and line—not guesswork. Build habits:

• Set pace before the turn

• Keep your leg

• Track early

• Look ahead, not down

“Count your rhythm out loud to quiet nerves and smooth your ride.”

6. Train Your Brain Like You Train Your Body

Mental resilience is a skill:

• Visualize success

• Breathe before your approach

• Break courses into sections

• Reflect on wins—not just mistakes

7. Trainer Partnership Is Everything

Confidence grows faster with smart support. Our trainers:

• Scale exercises appropriately

• Map prep timelines to show goals

• Coach at the gate, review after

• Adjust pairings to suit your growth

8. When It Falls Apart, Rebuild Intentionally

If the wheels come off:

• Reset to poles or flat

• Ride a small line with purpose

• End on a win—even if small

Confidence is cumulative. Don't rush it.

9. Show Ring Confidence Is Built at Home

Practice like you show:

• Add fill to fences

• Practice under time pressure

• Use warmup ring simulations

• Pick focus points for your round

“Confidence is built—not borrowed. With the right team, it lasts long past the ribbon.”

Ready to ride with more confidence? Start your journey at Sage Creek Stables. Elite training, white-glove care, and a community that supports your goals.