laid back/lazy or in pain?

[L&M]

I have owned a lovely small ISH for approx a year now. Prior to buying him he had not really been worked for 6 mnths, and came from bsja yard before that. I put him gradually back into work, but even fitter, I have a problem with making him go forward.
Initially I put it down to a lack of fitness and laziness, but am now wondering if he may have a niggle which is preventing him going forward - either back or feet. He is very lazy at competitions and I find it hard to mainain impulsion and sometimes we finish the longer courses in trot, despite kicking like a 'pony-clubber' and spurs!
He occasionally makes faces when I do his girth up but has been sound since purchase and flew through his vetting 9 mnths ago.
However, I hunted him weekly this season and out in the hunting field he is a different horse - is always galloping up the front and rocket launches into the jumps with no encouragement from me at all! He also is forward going on fun rides, but hacking on his own it is sometimes hard to get him into canter!
I do wonder if he was over-jumped in the past, which may explain his lack of enthusiasm for his sj, and I was told he could be lazy so maybe it is just his personality?
Feed wise, he is on top spec, alfa a oil and when hunting, oats.
Also, I have another horse who is the exact opposite, so am wondering if I am being unfair on him by comparing the two.
Any opinions/similiar situations welcome!!

 

[scotsmare]

If he loves to go out hunting but hates to SJ then I think you may have your answer

However, might be worth an MOT just to make sure everything is in order

 

[L&M]

Fortunately I prefer hunting too.......!!

 

[scotsmare]

Whew, that's ok then

 

[aimee8282]

It probably is that he loves hunting more than sj, but just for peace of mind I'd wanna get a check up. Maybe a Physio or saddler to check his back

if all ok I'd probably stick to hunting! Much more fun than sj

 

[AmyMay]

What are you feeding him? If he's hunted through the season is it time for a break?

And never does any harm having a little check up - if you're worried.

 

[Jane01]

Try a working hunter class with good solid rustics. Bet he'd go well if you attacked it like hunting. Also are you showjumping indoors? Try a big outdoor arena and have a strong canter round outside first.

 

[L&M]

Thanks for all your input - I hadn't thought about having a saddler check him/saddle first, as I did have it checked 6 mnths ago - but that was pre hunting and I know he has changed shape since then.
Also, re the suggestion of workers classes - I have done some with him, plus ht's, and he is more happier with those so maybe that is the way forward for the summer.