Jumping is a demanding sport that requires a great deal of focus on the part of both horse and rider. It also has a high level of risk that could lead to injury, so it’s essential to have a good balance and strong legs when jumping.
Luckily, there are lots of simple exercises you can put into practice today that will strengthen your horse’s skills. Here are some of them:
Practice the Two-Point Jumping Position
The Two-Point Position is one of the most basic jumping positions, and it is essential to learn how to do it correctly. This position puts minimal weight on your horse’s back and neck, which improves his jumping ability and leg technique.
Your center of gravity is also moved forward, simplifying balancing and controlling the jump. However, this position can be challenging to master.
If you’re a beginner, practicing the two-point position in a safe location with a well-trained horse and horse jump accessories is best. This will allow you to get accustomed to the post while minimizing potential injury.
Shorten your stirrups and reins slightly when you are practicing this position. If your stirrups are shorter, you will find it much easier to stay in this position.
Whether you are a hunter or jumper or enjoy galloping fences for fun, improving your two-point position can benefit you and your horse. While it’s a little tricky to master at first, with practice, you will develop a solid and secure position that will make jumping over fences safer and easier for you both.
Start with a walk and gradually work your way up to trot and canter when learning this position. It’s best to practice two points in a safe, familiar location where you can safely tame the horse at different paces without overdoing it.
Riding in a 2-point position puts minimal weight on your horse’s back and neck. This helps your horse to jump better and more efficiently, which will help it stay healthy longer. Also, it will improve your leg techniques and make it easier for you to stay in a balanced position over fences.
Practice the Three-Point Jumping Position
If you’re a beginner, practicing the three-point position can help you train yourself to maintain proper balance in your stirrups. You’ll also learn to lean forward without squeezing your knees to give you more freedom of movement over your horse.
Beginners are often tempted to look down, which can add more weight to the forehand and restrict the horse’s ability to jump. Instead, keep your head up, and your eyes focused forward.
The key to this exercise is to use the leg movement to straighten your back, aligning your heels, hips and shoulders. Once you’ve achieved this, push your rear and hips upward slightly above the saddle.
Once you’ve mastered the three-point position, you can practice jumping small obstacles to improve your balance and strength. Check your video footage each week to see how you’re improving.
The three-point jumping position involves more than just your seat and lower leg. It requires a strong core and balance, as well as good posture.
It also takes time to get this position right, so it’s essential to practice it regularly and make minor adjustments to improve your technique.
When practicing the three-point jumping position, your legs should be on the horse’s side, but your seat bones should remain firmly in the saddle. Your shoulders should be able to move freely, and your back should make an unbroken line from your shoulders to your hips.
You’ll also want to keep your head up and your eyes forward, especially when going over a jump. This helps you communicate confidence to your horse and tells them you’re not afraid of what’s coming up.
