Jumping at canter

[scout4361]

When I canter, I feel as though I am tilted slightly back (although I look to be sitting straight). Next week, I am going to try going over small jumps at canter rather than at trot. Trouble is I can't seem to picture in my mind going from canter to two-point position, which is tilted somewhat forward. I'm afraid I'll overdo it and end up flying over the horses head or at least landing on his neck. Any tips?????

[galadriel]

Perhaps you could practice cantering in two-point for a little while before you jump. Practice going into and out of two-point and see how it feels.

[jUmPingIsLifE]

you could practice going into two-point while cantering on the flat, or practice going over a ground pole to help with your timing.

[kedwards]

Before starting jumping, my instructor would have us practice extended periods of two-point, as well as getting in and out of two-point quickly. Sit 5 strides, rise into two-point for 5 strides, sit 4 strides, rise 4 strides, and so on down to one stride each. That can help you get used to getting in and out of jumping position quickly while also improving your feel and timing for your horse's stride.

That said, while you are first learning to canter the jump, it's a good idea to get into two-point and release before the jump until you get used the feel and timing. Once you are in two-point, you can just focus on keeping your balance and letting the horse rise up to you over the jump. However, it's best to start with a placing pole, gymastic, or grid, so that the striding is already set for the horse while you work on position and feel.

[FreedomStar]

it's actually a lot easier to jump in canter (for me anyways). You just canter normally, and look straight, and it's more like a hop in the canter stride. Just start small and work your way up. It's easier if you try cantering a cavaletti or groundpole before you try jumping.

[Barbie_Girl]

Definately practice on the flat first. As someone else said though cantering over a jump is much easier than it seems and often more comfortable than trotting over.


xxxx Barbie xxxx

[Graffallo]

When I first started jumping at the canter, I was told to ALWAYS grab the mane and stay in my 2-point for 2 strides after the jump. This has not only made my position the best it can be, which is what you want for hunter equitation, it has given me great confidence and balance.

[TBEventer2002]

I agree that you should stay in 2-point for a few strides before and after when first learning. It prevents you getting left behind before a jump or landing harshly on the horse's back right after. Just gradually decrease the number of strides before/after the jump as you get confident. However, once you gain the confidence and security of doing this, be sure to get out of that habit quickly if you plan to show jumpers or American Handy Hunter. :)

[SwiftwindSpirit]

When you're approaching the fence and can no longer see it, grab a handfull of mane right near the pommel. This will help you create balance over the jump without interfereing with the horse. If you grab the mane too far up the neck, you are creating a posibility of being whacked in the face by the horse's neck or head.

Don't worry, cantering over jumps doesn't sound as scary as it seems. Just remember that the jump is a natural extension of canter. That's why sometimes a horse may canter after trotting over a jump. They find it much easier to canter over it compared to trotting over it. I'm sure you'll be fine! :)

Also, try not to predict when the horse is going to jump. Just let it all come to you, and let the horse do all the work. When you go into 2-point don't get right out of the saddle. You should be only slightly above the saddle, but with your weight still in it- just lifted off a bit.