If you think of cavaletti, pole work, and intense dressage lessons when you hear the word “gymnastics,” you might want to reconsider. Because this video proves that fitness can also be fun—and quite a lot of it, at that.
The star of the show is a four-year-old Hanoverian by Don Pleasure, currently in training with Anja Rietbrock. He’s actually well on his way to becoming a serious show jumper… or so it seems. Because today there’s no course on the schedule, but rather a somewhat unusual training tool: a ball.
And what can one say? The young athlete takes his task very seriously. With astonishing motivation, the ball is maneuvered, nudged, and chased around the arena—and is likely already being mentally filed away as a future opponent on the show jumping course. Coordination? Check. Agility? Check. Good spirits? Double-check.
Incidentally, this shows just how important playful variety is in the training of young horses. Instead of monotonous routines, there is curiosity, initiative, and plenty of expression. And let’s be honest: When do you ever see a budding show jumper darting so exuberantly through the arena?
He still has time to enjoy his career—because this summer, the talented four-legged friend will be heading across the pond to his new home in the USA. Until then, he’s not only gaining experience under the saddle, but apparently also as a secret soccer pro.
Conclusion: Gymnastics class passed—with extra points for creativity and enthusiasm.
