Having the right jumping position will go a long way in ensuring your success in the ring and helping you progress your jumping to more technical and larger fences. Unfortunately, the jumping only lasts for a split second, so you won’t have much time to make position corrections like you can on the flat ground.
While this is true, there are some tips that can help. Keep reading to find out how you can improve your jumping position here.
Drop the Reins
While getting the height of the horse jump poles right is important, you also have to improve your own position and set up for successful jumps. You may wonder why dropping the reins is a good idea.
By doing this, you can create an independent seat. This means you won’t be pulling on the reins to maintain balanced while jumping over fences, which means you remain over the center of gravity of the horse and avoid overjumping. If your lower leg slips back, it may be caused by you throwing your upper body over your horse while you are jumping. This causes momentum, which results in you sliding your lower leg to the back.
Keep in mind though, you should only drop the reins on an established and safe horse. This isn’t an exercise difficult, fresh, or young horses.
Spend Additional Time in the Proper Jumping Position
The two-point position you have doesn’t have to be used just while going over fences. By spending additional time in the proper jumping position, you can develop muscle memory, which makes you stronger and more balanced. If this sounds simple, it’s because it is.
When it comes to improving your jumping position while on your horse, the tips here can help you get started. Be sure to work with a professional trainer, too, as they are going to have additional tips that can help.
