What is Combined Training?
Combined Training is an equestrian competition that brings together two disciplines: dressage and showjumping. It is a great way for horse-and-rider combinations to demonstrate accuracy and control in the dressage arena before taking on the very different challenge of a showjumping course.

Competitors first ride a dressage test, which assesses qualities such as rhythm, balance, accuracy, suppleness and the partnership between horse and rider. The percentage achieved is converted into penalties — for example, a dressage score of 65% becomes 35 penalties.

The combination then completes a showjumping round. Jumping penalties, such as those for knocking down a fence or a refusal, are added to the dressage penalties..

For example:
Dressage: 65% = 35 penalties
Showjumping: 4 penalties
Final score: 39 penalties.

The combination with the lowest overall penalty score wins.

Combined Training is particularly useful because it develops a wide range of skills. Dressage encourages balance, obedience and accuracy, while showjumping tests confidence, control and the ability to maintain a good rhythm around a course.

It can also provide a natural introduction to eventing, which combines dressage, showjumping and cross-country.

For Pick Your Own Combined Training at Allens Hill, we can make the format even more accessible by allowing competitors to choose an appropriate dressage test and showjumping height, making it suitable for everyone from first-time competitors to more experienced combinations.

The Perfect Place to Start Your Showjumping Journey

Mini Showjumping at Allens Hill Competition Centre is designed to give riders and their horses or ponies a friendly, enjoyable introduction to competitive showjumping.

Whether you are preparing for your very first competition, bringing out a young or inexperienced horse or pony, or simply looking for somewhere to build confidence, Mini Showjumping gives you the opportunity to gain valuable competition experience without unnecessary pressure.

Small Fences, Big Achievements

Everyone has to start somewhere.

Our Mini Showjumping classes use inviting courses and progressive fence heights, giving horse and rider the opportunity to develop their skills at a level that suits them.

For a young or inexperienced rider, simply entering the arena and completing a course can be a huge achievement. For a novice horse or pony, it is an opportunity to experience a competition environment and learn what is expected without being asked to do too much too soon.

The emphasis is on confidence, correct riding and having fun.

No Pressure from the Clock

Our Mini Showjumping classes are judged solely on jumping penalties, so there is no additional pressure from the clock.

This allows riders to concentrate on riding a good course, maintaining a rhythm and helping their horse or pony confidently from one fence to the next.

It isn't about being the fastest — it's about enjoying your round and building experience together.

A Friendly and Supportive Competition

We know that coming to a competition for the first time can feel a little daunting.

At Allens Hill, our experienced team is on hand to help. From arriving at the venue and finding the warm-up arena to entering the competition arena and collecting your rosette, we want riders and their families to feel welcome and supported.

Lead-rein combinations are also welcome in classes where permitted, making Mini Showjumping an ideal opportunity for some of our youngest competitors to experience the excitement of taking part.

Building Towards the Next Step

Mini Showjumping isn't just about one competition. Each round provides another opportunity to improve your riding, develop your partnership and build confidence.

As your experience grows, you can gradually progress through the heights and, when you are ready, move towards larger unaffiliated classes and British Showjumping competitions.

Training and practice at home are important, but competition brings a different experience. Learning to warm up away from home, riding in a competition arena and completing a course when it matters are all valuable skills.

Come and Have a Go

You don't need to be an experienced showjumper to get started.

Bring your horse or pony, have a go and enjoy the experience. Whether you come home with a rosette or simply achieve something you haven't managed before, every round is another step forward.

Mini Showjumping at Allens Hill — a friendly place to start, learn and build confidence together.

Please remember that riders must be appropriately dressed and sleeves are required.