How can you improve your horse jumping technique?

Jumping is an important part of the show ring and shows are judged according to your competitor’s ability to clear the obstacles with style and grace. Horses that are weak in the jumping ring will not make it through the higher levels of competition, but thankfully it’s something that most horse owners can work on in the lead up to competing.Jumping is a highly technical skill that is not easy to master, but with dedication and practice you can improve your horse’s skills on the course and come out on top. While it may seem like an impossible challenge at first glance, jumping is nothing to be afraid of as long as you are willing to put in the time and effort necessary to succeed. Here are some tips and tricks for improving your horse’s jumping technique fast!

Start Small and Build Up From There

When jumping for the first time, you want to start off small and work your way up. This will help you avoid injury and make any mistakes that you learn from more valuable. Start by practicing your horse’s approach to the jump, followed by a few low jumps that your horse can clear comfortably.

Learn the Basics About the Horse’s Body Language

While you’re working on your horse’s jumping technique, it’s important to also take note of their body language. Many times, we ignore the nonverbal cues our horse is giving us, but if we pay attention we can learn a lot about what our horse is trying to tell us. For example, if your horse is shying away from the jump, it’s probably because it’s too high for them to clear without risking injury.If you notice that your horse is moving away from the jumps, it’s important to stay calm and try not to show your frustration. Your horse will pick up on your body language and will likely become even more apprehensive as a result.

Don’t Get Discouraged if Your Horse Breaks a Nail

Jumping is an aggressive sport, so you should expect your horse to break a few nails along the way. This is part of the learning process and is something that happens to all riders from time to time. If your horse sprains a hock or breaks a nail, don’t worry! You can usually find a solution to solve the problem so that your horse is able to compete again as soon as possible.

Watch Your Horse’s Feet

When jumping, you want to make sure that your horse is keeping his or her legs underneath them. If your horse is lifting its front legs too high off the ground, this could lead to a bad attempt at the jump. Horses that lift their legs too high are at a higher risk of falling, which could cause injuries in the ring.

Don’t be Afraid to Speak Up if Something Is Wrong

Asking for help when your horse is having issues with the jump is crucial, but you also have to be careful not to let the rider who is helping you get too close to your horse. Riders who are new to the ring may not realize the danger of accidentally brushing against your horse.If you’re not sure how to help your horse in a situation, it’s best to ask for help from someone who knows what they’re doing. Even though you may feel silly asking for help at first, it could save your horse’s legs.

Try Out Different Types of Beds and Fences

While you’re working on your horse’s jumping technique, it’s a good idea to experiment with different types of jumps to see what your horse likes and doesn’t like. Try out different types of jumps like cross rails, vertical panels, and other challenging obstacles to see what works best for you and your horse.