08/30/2025
For many riders, the obsession with “finding a distance” can turn into a daily battle. We walk into the ring convinced that every jump is a test of whether we can see that perfect takeoff spot. But at Balmoral, the philosophy is different. Instead of chasing the distance, the focus is on rhythm, pace, and track. When those pieces are correct, the distance takes care of itself.
At its core, riding to a jump is about presenting the horse with the same canter stride again and again. Rhythm is what makes that stride predictable. Horses are creatures of habit, and they thrive when the canter feels like a steady drumbeat. A consistent rhythm keeps the horse relaxed, balanced, and mentally prepared for the effort ahead.
When riders change the pace every three strides—slowing, kicking, pulling—the horse is left guessing. That uncertainty often leads to missed distances, chipped jumps, or long, weak efforts. Rhythm, on the other hand, builds trust. The horse knows what’s coming, and the rider can focus on steering and balance instead of panicking about “seeing” something.
Rhythm doesn’t mean slow. In fact, one of the most common corrections at Balmoral is asking riders to go forward. A plodding canter rarely produces quality jumps. Instead, the horse needs impulsion, the power from behind that creates a strong, jumping stride.
Think of pace as the energy within the rhythm. The right pace feels like you’re riding forward to the base of the jump, not crawling or rushing. It gives the horse the power to push off the ground and the rider the ability to stay with the motion. Without pace, rhythm falls flat; without rhythm, pace becomes chaotic.
🔗 Continue reading the article at https://www.theplaidhorse.com/2025/08/27/the-power-of-rhythm-why-pace-and-track-solve-distances/
📸 Photo © Carly Nasznic
