Under Saddle Series
A progressive phase of the Sporthorse Progression Program
Designed to develop horses beyond basic rideability, with a focus on improving the quality of movement, responsiveness, and confidence under saddle.
As trainers—not just riders—our role is to educate the horse, refine their understanding, and support correct development rather than simply “getting on and going.”
This phase builds directly on the foundations established in earlier stages. We assess each horse individually, reinforcing what they know, identifying and filling gaps, and strengthening clarity in the aids.
Developing the Whole Sporthorse
The goal is a horse that moves correctly, responds willingly, and remains confident in their work.
Quality of Movement
Improved movement through balance, rhythm, and suppleness — developing correct biomechanics from the start.
Responsiveness
Increased responsiveness to seat, leg, and bridle — building clear, willing communication.
Confidence
Built through consistency and correct preparation — a horse that trusts its training and its rider.
Thoughtful Progression
Advancement without tension or force. Each horse progresses on an individual timeline with careful attention.
Rather than specializing too early, this program offers purposeful cross-training to support soundness, longevity, and adaptability.
Cross-Training for Correct Development
Horses in the Under Saddle Series are exposed to a variety of experiences designed to enhance understanding and athletic ability.
Flatwork
Focused on correct biomechanics and adjustability, developing the horse’s ability to carry itself with balance and softness.
Progressive Jump Training
Appropriate to the horse’s stage of development, building technique and body awareness through gymnastics and grids.
Trail Riding & Obstacles
Building bravery, focus, and real-world confidence through varied environments and thoughtful challenges.
This varied approach encourages horses to think, adapt, and stay mentally engaged while reinforcing correct movement patterns across environments.
How the Under Saddle Series Is Different
Many programs focus on riding for mileage or keeping a horse “going.” The Under Saddle Series is designed to educate the horse and build confidence—creating long-term success rather than short-term progress.
Traditional Riding Programs
- Emphasis on time under saddle
- Focus on the rider completing the task
- Correctness addressed as issues arise
- Limited cross-training
- Horses often learn to cope rather than understand
The Under Saddle Series
- Emphasis on improving quality of movement and response
- Trainer-led education, not just riding
- Proactive development of balance, softness, and clarity
- Thoughtful cross-training for soundness and confidence
- Horses develop understanding, confidence, and willingness
This distinction allows horses to progress without tension, resistance, or confusion—and supports sustainable development at every stage.
Advancement & Specialization: Show Jumping
Focused development within the Sporthorse Progression Program
The Advancement & Specialization phase builds on the rideability, confidence, and correct movement developed in the Under Saddle Series. This stage is intended for horses ready for increased technical demand while maintaining calm, clarity, and physical correctness.
Training shifts toward discipline-specific development without sacrificing the foundational principles of softness, responsiveness, and confidence.
Purposeful Show Jumping Development
- Gymnastic and grid work to improve technique and body awareness
- Development of rhythm, adjustability, and balance to fences
- Increased responsiveness to leg and seat aids
- Confidence-building exercises that promote bravery without pressure
Flatwork remains an integral component, supporting correct jumping mechanics and ensuring the horse stays supple, rideable, and adjustable between fences.
Preparing for the Ring & Beyond
In addition to jumping-specific work, horses continue to benefit from varied environments and experiences. Trail rides, exposure to new settings, and thoughtful challenges help produce horses that are not only capable jumpers, but reliable partners.
This phase prepares horses for:
- Continued competitive development
- Transition to a professional or amateur rider
- Sales and presentation as a developing show jumper
Readiness Criteria for Specialization
Horses are carefully assessed to ensure they are prepared—mentally, physically, and emotionally—for increased demands. Readiness is not based on age alone, but on demonstrated understanding, confidence, and quality of work.
- Calm, relaxed behavior under saddle
- Clear understanding of leg, seat, and bridle aids
- Willing, responsive transitions without resistance
- Soft, consistent connection in the bridle
- Balanced walk, trot, and canter with developing self-carriage
- Suppleness through the body and ability to bend both directions
- Rhythm and adjustability within the gaits
- Ability to maintain balance before and after transitions
- Confidence in new environments and situations
- Ability to stay focused without tension or reactivity
- Willingness to try, even when presented with new questions
- Recovery from mistakes without escalation or loss of confidence
- Comfortable stepping over poles and small obstacles
- Straightness and balance to and away from fences
- Calm, confident approach without rushing or stopping
- Ability to remain responsive to the rider before and after the jump
Horses that do not yet meet these criteria may benefit from additional time in the Under Saddle Series. This ensures specialization begins from a place of understanding and confidence—supporting longevity, soundness, and success.
Ready to Advance Your Horse’s Training?
The Under Saddle Series creates horses that are rideable, confident, and increasingly expressive in their work. Let’s discuss how this program can help your horse reach its potential.