Jumps for training, muscle improvement?

Has anyone used small jumps as a training and muscle development tool on non-jumping horses?
I'm considering building a few small jumps to work Loki and Red over. It seems MUCH better than the ever endless lunge circles, plus it also seems a great way to work on vocal cues and body language to move and communicate with the horse.

Not to mention the desentizing opportunities. Stepping over a jump with flags on the side, or sparkly stuff like tinsel. Loki I definitely want to get back on the trails with, same with Red if I end up not selling him.

Getting used to flapping/flashing/weird things will probably prove to be especially helpful in the ring.


Has anyone done this? Thoughts? I'm also going to be working Loki up and down the hills on the 5 acres I rent just as soon as I can walk again. Approaching the small pond should be a riot. 'It's a scary duck! And theres a frog! MUD! Oh god! Water! I-will-MELT'

You could probably free-jump your horse over some small x-rails, but I've never done it before, so I'm not sure how.

I find that cavaletti poles work really well though. Place them on the ground about a step apart (your horse's front legs should only hit the ground in between each pole once). This really makes your horse engage her back end and lift her legs. It also helps in creating more impulsion and energy in the extended trot. If you are riding her over cavalettis, I find it easier to go into two-point as your horse trots over the poles.

I think you can lunge a horse over cavaletti as well.

Absolutely. Cavaletti is a great way to build up essential muscles for any discipline.

Good luck!

Some small cross poles, or low pole jumps, half barrels would all they would be doing. They are gaited so I don't know if trotting poles would work though O.o

Loki's starting to get a squishy butt and a belly from just sitting around all day and Red needs to improve his muscle tone so he can being saddle training soon.