ASKHQ: PLACING POLES

Q: What’s the point of a placing pole?

A: Placing poles help to control a horse who speeds and are also excellent for creating ‘jump’ in the canter leading up to the fence. They can also help correct your striding if you don’t have a good eye for a stride. A ground pole rolled slightly away from the jump can influence your horse’s bascule over the fence and prevent him from jumping flat. Remember, however, not to make use of placing and ground poles all the time because your horse may learn to rely on them!