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Stand and deliver to stay top of the line-up – why stillness in the show ring matters more than you think

When a top judge and producer says that standing still is as important as the walk, trot and canter, it highlights why this skill needs as much practice as any of the paces. In this article exclusively for H&H subscribers, we consult the experts to find out how to prepare a horse so they can stand quietly in the show ring, whether it’s for the line-up, assessment or presentation
Kim Wilson Kim Wilson

    • Standing still in the show ring is one of the most overlooked elements, yet it’s one of the most important. Whether it’s for the initial pull, the conformation assessment, or the final line-up, your horse or pony is likely to spend more time standing than doing anything else in the ring. A pony that won’t stand quietly doesn’t just risk losing marks, it could lead to you being asked to leave the ring altogether.

    To find out how to improve this often-neglected skill, we speak to top producers and judges to gather their advice on how to make standing still part of your routine and your success.

    Why standing still matters in the show ring

    Judge Stuart Hollings, with a wealth of experience in the showing world, is clear that preparation begins long before show day.

    “There’s nothing more frustrating than a beautiful animal who’s gone foot-perfect in the go-round and individual show, only to start fussing in the line-up and upsetting the other ponies,” he says.

    “Stillness must become as natural as walk, trot or canter. Too many riders finish their schooling, pop them back in the stable, and don’t practise the still bits. One trainer once told me, ‘Have a cup of tea and a piece of cake while the horse stands still’. And it stuck with me.”

    Three horses standing still in an arena

    Standing still quietly needs plenty of practice at home. Credit: Philip Barker

    Stillness is not just about presentation; it also reflects a horse’s education and temperament. British Show Pony Society chairman and judge Paul Cook stresses how crucial it is during conformation judging.

    “The conformation section makes up 50% of the mark,” he says. “A judge has a very short window to assess your animal. If it won’t stand still and square, I can’t see the limbs or body clearly. It’s a missed opportunity.”

    Practising this at home is vital. Horses need to accept someone walking around them, viewing from all angles. Without this preparation, they’re likely to swing their quarters or step away just when it matters most.

    Training techniques that work

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