What are the correct distances for gymnastic exercises in hunter jumper?

The correct distances for gymnastic exercises depend on the type of gymnastic, the size of the horse, and the specific training goal of the exercise — and while standard distances exist as starting points, they must be adjusted for individual horses whose stride length differs significantly from the average. Standard bounce distances for average-sized horses with a normal stride are approximately nine to twelve feet from landing to takeoff — close enough that the horse cannot fit a full canter stride between elements but far enough that a horse of reasonable size can physically land and immediately take off without being forced into an uncomfortable position. Standard one-stride distances from landing to takeoff are approximately eighteen to twenty-two feet, calculated to allow exactly one comfortable canter stride between elements. Standard two-stride distances are approximately thirty-three to thirty-six feet, allowing exactly two comfortable strides. These measurements are starting points that experienced trainers adjust based on what they observe: a distance that is slightly too short will cause the horse to get tight and uncomfortable at the second element, while one that is slightly too long will produce a reaching, long takeoff that is less gymnastic than the intended exercise. The approach to the first element of a grid is typically set from trot — a trot pole or small cross rail that the horse trots over, giving it a consistent speed and stride length as it enters the gymnastic — because a trot entry removes the variability of canter pace as a factor and ensures that all horses approach the first element at approximately the same speed. After the horse canters out of the first trot fence, subsequent elements are set at canter distances. The fence heights within a gymnastic should increase progressively from the entry to the exit — lower fences at the entry that grow progressively larger through the line — because lower entry fences at trot set the horse up for the gymnastic more comfortably than a full-height fence encountered immediately after the trot entry.