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jumping position

Rider’s effectiveness in a 3 point position and a forward seat

Droits d'accès: 
Abonné
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Résumé listing: 

This exercise is a good test to know if the rider is equally effective whatever her position: seated or forward seat. The goal is to get the horse to keep the same canter rhythm and the same pushing power, especially in the turns as horses have a tendency to decrease their impulsion in the turns.

Niveau de difficulté: 
Débutant
Goal: 

This exercise is a good test to know if the rider is equally effective whatever her position: seated or forward seat. The goal is to get the horse to keep the same canter rhythm and the same pushing power, especially in the turns as horses have a tendency to decrease their impulsion in the turns.

We explained in the previous lessons how important it is to allow the horse to move freely especially in his back. As a result, it is best to be in a jumping position to allow the free flow of energy along the top line and to encourage the horse to engage his hind legs. The better the horse’s pushing power, especially in the turns, the easier it is for the rider to slow down, speed up, or modify the length of the stride to approach the fence in good form.
In general, when riding in a seated position, riders may have the feeling of being stronger, more secure and that their aids are more effective. However, to seat heavily in the saddle, pushing down on the back of the horse, works against the forward movement.
Rider should be able to ride and remain as effective in a 3-point position as they are in a 2 point position. To switch from one position to the other one, should not generate any stiffness or blockage, as it will have a negative impact on the pushing power and balance of the horse, as well as on the rider’s ability to stay on a precise track. The more fluid and light the rider is in his movements, the steadier the horse will be in his canter….This is today’s focus.

This exercise refers to the sheet H9 of the Training 1 program.

Progress: 

Lucile rides her mare Vanille to demonstrate the exercise. As she starts the exercise, she realises that it is more challenging than expected. Vanille is not a very reactive mare and to turn short makes her lose the impulsion which causes her to break into a trot. The goal will be to keep the same rhythm over the entire track, especially before, over and after the flexi jump ground poles.

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How to improve your 2 point position

Droits d'accès: 
Abonné
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Résumé listing: 

Michel offers a very good exercise to practise as often as possible to improve the 2 point position which is fundamental for jumpers whatever their level.

Niveau de difficulté: 
Débutant
Goal: 

For jumpers, a correct 2 point position is fundamental to be in harmony with the mount and apply light but effective aids. Flowing with the movement with ease by allowing the closing and opening motion of the joints –hips, knees and ankles - enables the rider to influence the horse effectively without impeding the horse’s motion especially when approaching a fence or at landing.

This 2 point position can also release the horse’s back at the time he needs all the freedom of movement possible during the different jump phases.

To Michel, this position is not only effective but is also nice to watch. It brings out the feelings of lightness and harmony that characterise the beautiful way great champions ride.

Michel offers here a very good exercise to practise as often as possible in order to improve the 2 point position.

This practice will be good for stiff riders looking for a better connection with their horses. For all rider, it‘s a good way to test if their position allows them to face any kind of situations.

 

Progress: 

To show the exercise, Michel teaches Charlotte, riding her own mare Cendrillon. He reminds his student about the key elements that will allow her to follow the movement while well balanced on her feet. It will prevent her from making the common mistakes that lead the riders to hold their balance with the reins and crush the horse’s back.

From the moment, the rider is loose and flowing with the movement well balanced on her feet, the horse becomes round and goes easily on the bit which, in the end, makes the ride more enjoyable

Variant / Progression: 

The exercise can be practised at the three gaits to get the feel for the changes of balance throughout the phases of the movement.
 

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