Navigating the warm-up ring at a horse show can feel like trying to dance at a crowded party. There’s excitement, nerves, and a bit of chaos (and the occasional flailing). But, like any good party, there are social norms and common courtesies that keep everyone having a good time, or in the case of the horse show, keep everyone safe.

Before we get into the unwritten rules, let’s talk about a few of the most important warm-up ring fundamentals;  

1. Always pass left to left just like at home in your arena. This is a universally understood protocol like the rules of the road – everyone follows this important rule and it keeps everyone safe.
2. Never circle in front of a jump – it’s too busy and you could circle right in front of someone approaching that jump.
3. Some warm-up rings have rules on which way you can jump a jump. This is part of the traffic control for busy rings. If there are flags on the standards, or the top is painted red, you must only jump that jump with the red on your right. RED-RIGHT. That’s the only direction to jump that jump. If the standards have red on both sides, or on all four standards (of an oxer for example) that jump may be jumped both ways. If there are no markers on the standards, that jump can be jumped in either direction.

These are rules that, if nothing else, will keep you and others safe and everyone must follow.

Now, onto the more mysterious of the warm-up ring protocols. These are the unwritten rules, the ones that people just seem to know without it being ‘official’. Without knowing these common courtesies, you could be unintentionally committing a horse show faux-pas, or misdemeanor offense that technically doesn’t break any rule… but might leave the wrong impression on your fellow competitors (and you red in the face).

Don’t Stop on the Track

Imagine you’re on the freeway, cruising along, and someone decides to park their car in the middle of the lane. Chaos, right? The same applies to the warm-up ring. If you need to stop, find a quiet spot in a corner, or even better, exit the arena. This keeps the traffic flowing and avoids unnecessary pile-ups. Remember, the warm-up ring is for warming up, not for impromptu horsey heart-to-hearts.

Single File, Please!

While it might be tempting to walk side-by-side with your riding buddy and spill the tea about last nights Derby winner, resist the urge. It’s hard enough to navigate around one horse on the rail, let alone two. Single file keeps things moving smoothly and ensures everyone has space to work. Save the ‘sesh’ for the cantina after the show.

Call Your Jumps

Communication is key, especially when jumps are involved in a busy warm-up ring. If you’re approaching a jump, give a heads up: “Heads up at the vertical!” or a simple “Oxer!” will do the trick. This is crucial if someone is in your path or too close for comfort. Clear calls help prevent accidents and keep everyone on the same page.

Halt for Falls

If a rider makes an unexpected dismount, halt immediately. Safety first, always. Ensure both horse and rider are being tended to before resuming your warm-up. In cases where medical attention is required, you might need to find another ring. It’s all about being considerate and prioritizing safety over convenience.

Mind Your Whip

For those wielding a long dressage-style whip, be mindful of its whereabouts. Keep it against your side to avoid accidentally whacking a passing horse or rider. Think of it as your dance partner—close and controlled, not flailing wildly.

Respect the Red Bow

A red bow in a horse’s forelock or tail is a polite request for space. It signals that the horse might need a bit more room, perhaps due to being a kicker, perhaps they don’t like oncoming traffic, or they just need a bit more personal space. Give these horses a wide berth and everyone stays happy.

Pick a Jump

Your coach will get a jump for you, and you will only jump that jump. If you don’t have a coach, and you don’t have someone on the ground to set for you, ask permission to jump someone else’s jump while they are using it (for their client or whoever they are setting for). When a rider/coach have claimed a jump and are using it, they will not expect anyone else to jump it. This will be considered very rude and dangerous if they aren’t watching for you. If you need to jump someone’s jump, always ask first.

Bonus Tips:

• Stay Alert: No phones please! Rude AND dangerous (this may actually become a new USEF RULE).
• Be Polite: A smile and a nod can go a long way in maintaining a friendly atmosphere. We’re all in this together!
• Keep It Moving: The warm-up ring is not the place for lengthy schooling sessions. Keep your warm-up efficient and purposeful.
• Give Way: Those warming up for a class have priority over lessons or sales presentations.

There you have it, a glimpse behind the etiquette curtain that will keep you maneuvering the warm-up ring, and all its controlled chaos, like a seasoned pro.

Show up to your next show informed, prepared and confident.

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