Help with jumping position -

[Voy_Por]

Hi guys - trying to do some more jumping and it is a while since i have done jumping and i am doing it with a new horse.

I have always tried to keep my weight in my heels - with my backside pushed back so to speak - then taking a more forward position in my seat and feet slightly turned out.

Does that sound about right?

How tight should the reins be when i jump? should i give a bit more rein or a bit less so that the reins are tight?

Thanks all.

 

[Iron Maiden]

The position you describe sounds fine, make sure you shorten your stirrups up plenty so you don't end up with your weight in your toes & your legs swinging back.

Your hands should have a pretty much 'normal' contact coming into the jump, don't fiddle and interfere, but equally don't drop the contact because you'll drop the horse onto it's forehand and risk a run out/stop/unbalanced jump. Over the fence the horse will need to stretch its head & neck. You should either follow the movement with your hands by giving with them towards the horse's mouth so there is a straight line from the horse's mouth, through your hand to your elbow, or do what's called a 'crest release' where you push your hands up the back of the horse's neck so the reins go slack & the horse can stretch. I do the following the movement thing (some people call this 'natural release') because I find it easier, but some people prefer the crest release

 

[Voy_Por]

Thanks a lot - that is a great explanation.

Will definately come in handy - thanks again for that.