Jumpers, I Need Your Tips!!!!

[Kecka~Rocka]

I wanting to start jumping now, my horse is capable of open which gives me confidence on jumping smaller fences as he never refuses (never say never). (im not wanting to do opens yet lol):D ps i do have regular lessons but just want to know what your guys experience's are.

:) Im wanting tips on basic learning to jump.

:D How long did it take you before you went to jumping competitions?

:eek: What was your first show like nerves, placings etc?

:rolleyes: Any trade sercets to jumping??

Anything welcome i just wanna jump lol :)

[flintybaby]

I'm one of these people that gives anything a go and evaluates what I do. I would practice jumping a few small jumps at what you feel comfortable with and then have a look at local shows and what heights they do. Take your pony to a show and see what happens. If he refuses every jump then you know you have to work harder at fillers/red jumps etc, if he knocks them you can try grid work. Its trial and error with horses. You may find you go round and go clear but need a faster time to get placed?!? It all depends on the club, your nerves on the day and the competition.

Everyone gets nervous! I went to a competition on Sunday and jumped higher than we've jumped before and thought I was going to be sick before I went in! Remember your nerves pass on to your horse so even if your nervous still be positive and ride forwards!

Good luck and dont forget to have someone take pics or a video to critique yourself after! Also it will give your RI something to work on!!

[The Flying Irishman]

Keep your weight in your heels to secure your lower leg, sit up straight on approach to the jump, keep your hands down and maintain an even contact, try not to interfere with the horse on approach to the jump, look ahead not down when going over.

[PinkGlamourGurl]

First shows are scary :D But really fun if theyre handled well.

Its all about the lower leg position in jumping, it must be strong and stable. When riding into a fence always look over it, that is where you intend to land. Dont look into spreads, you could end up there :D

Watch other people ride the course, see where they have trouble and be ready for it just in case. Think positive and always look for your fence, far too many people i know dont look at the fence soon enough.

Also trust your horse, if there's already a strong bond between you chances are they'll be willing to give you a hand. My personal favourite saying ever is "Throw your heart over a fence and your horse will follow" If you're comitted to jumping a fence then your horse will be too :)

Good Luck

[flintybaby]

"Throw your heart over a fence and your horse will follow"

Hmm I like it and so true!!

[Fancy_mover23]

I jumped for about 6 months before competing in my first show. I started by competing in the x rail/ baby hunter division in locals.

As for jumping tips. Make sure you still do alot of flat work, and lots of posting/two point without stirrups. Also, make sure you start with xrails, and work your way up to verticals. Just make sure to listen to your trainer, and do as much core work as possible, and build strong legs and heels, because that will help you with you position alot.

As for my first show...I was REALLY nervous. I placed 3rd in my baby hunter, 4th in my flat, and 3rd in equitation. It was a good show.

Good luck....
Stacey