Jumping lessons

[Rowerss]

Okay, Ive got some jumping lessons for christmas and had my first one last thursday. It was really fun and I rode this lovely pony called Rosie, the thing is:
I was fine doing the position etc, and I jumped the cross poles all well and was really enjoying myself and so the instructer put up this straight bar that wasnt particually high, [to me it was on the higher side as I havent much experience jumping thanks to were I have lessons] but whenever I got towards it I'd tense up. And that them made me bump on the other side.

Has anyone had this problem with straight bars before? and do you know what i can do about it? Im really concentrating on my flatwork at my normal stables to help me relax more and get a really good position but do you know what else might help?

Thanks!

[Vez]

I would suggest lowering the straight bar and then gradually increasing it so you can gain more confidence. It may also be good to start by taking it at a trot. Make sure you are calm when you approach it and concentrate on your position. Another idea is maybe to get lunged over it, that might mean you can concentrate on the jump more than controling the horse.

Sorry if thats not any help, good luck and remember its about fun!

Vez xx:)