Ditching the pendulum swing of the lower leg
QI have a new horse and I’m really struggling with my jumping position in the saddle. He has quite a big jump and I feel like my legs swing back and I lean on the reins too much.
How can I find my balance?
Jane Saunders, Rutland
Leanne says: There are three components to a balanced jumping position…
■1 An independent seat and hands: You want to have a seat that can be light and off the horse’s back, as well as the ability to sit and connect with the saddle, all while remaining soft with your hands.
■2 A strong and stable core: This is the ‘tree trunk’ of the rider. ■3 A secure, relaxed and effective leg position.
There are two exercises that are vital for showjumping riders…
EXERCISE 1: RIDING IN A TWO POINT POSITION
Stay in a balanced two-point position with your thigh, lower leg and heel supporting your weight, your core supporting your upper body, and your hand gently on the neck. You can hold a neck strap, but see how often your hands come off your horse’s neck as he moves beneath you. Keep your pelvis tilted forwards and focus on your hips and heels remaining in alignment. Your hips should be hovering just inches above the middle of the saddle, with your shoulders tall and your core strong so that you don’t collapse down. Maintain this position in walk, trot and canter.
EXERCISE 2: RIDING WITHOUT STIRRUPS
Riding without stirrups is another essential exercise for showjumpers as it teaches them to be able to sit deep and stay connected. Once you’re comfortable riding without stirrups at walk, trot and canter, step it up with polework and cavaletti. Riding these without stirrups will teach you to follow the horse’s movement with your hips and allow your hands forward so that you don’t rely on them for balance. Use a neck strap.
Think about staying soft through your seat bones, upper thighs and lower legs to absorb the movement. This takes some practice!
Stop relying on the reins
When you’re jumping, find your horse’s mane at the point of take-off and hold onto it until all four of his feet have landed on the other side. This will help you to follow his movement with your hands and not hold onto his mouth in the air or lean on the reins for balance. Also, as your horse takes off, allow your lower leg to come forwards beneath you. This will keep it underneath you for a secure landing position, rather than it sliding back and feeling unstable in the air.