Cross country help!

[Sámie]

When you do cross country, when you jump quite big, do you lean out your seat like showjumping or do you just lean forward and just go with the flow, also what about the reins, how much shall I give him?
thanks xxx

[soph jones]

different people have diffebt styles of jumping. it is what ever works bets for you and your pony?

[benjixchorse]

well i just ride it like im showjumping but with my seat out the saddle between fences.
Your reins should be tight enough to control but long enough for free movement.

[EventGoBragh]

Well It Really Depends on you and you horse... But you might want to try to have a more "Open" and Less "Defensive" Position try more of a Short or Creast release rather than a more flowing long release. You should also try to stay out of the saddle between fences and sit only a few strides in. As for the Reins it really Depends on your pony, I like to Have shorter reins so that all I have to do Is sit back in my saddle for more control.

[kedwards]

On flat terrain over a standard obstacle, my position is very similar to what it would be in the ring.

If the terrain is downhill after the jump, then I stay closer to the seat over the jump, keep rein contact, and prepare to sit down and collect quickly on landing.

If it's a bank, I ride right up to it and keep my weight forward and out of the seat until the horse has fully landed.

If it's a drop, I lean back, allow the reins to slip, close my eyes, and pray. Well, I made up the "close my eyes" part, but you get the idea.

Caveat: You did ask about "big" XC, so I'm not really qualified to answer, but I figured I'd throw out what I do and was taught anyway.

[Horseswillrule1]

Exactly what KedWards said! :D But yes, you do lean forward and come out of your seat.