Show Jumping Mechanics – Part 4

Welcome to the last part of our “Show Jumping Mechanics” series. As we mentioned, knowing how horses jump helps us become better riders. Previously we have covered the fundamentals of show jumping, the jumping gymnastics and the essential techniques, in this blog, we speak about the most wonderful part of jumping: the flight.

Read on for a detailed view on everything encompassing the flight mechanics.

The Flight

Your horse unleashed all his potential power and is full in the air, flying over the obstacle. Here is when horses fold their fore and back legs to clear the jump. They bend their elbows and pull their forelegs up and forward. This classic movement we all see when horses jump demands a lot of coordination. One of the differences between an average and a great jumping horse is how they tuck their hands up.

A perfect show-jumping horse raises both forelegs evenly with a strong movement. First, he will bend the elbows. Then, he will pull the forelegs up and forward. It’s important to note that they use two big muscles to do this: the brachiocephalic and the trapezius.

The foreleg action is a bit different. In the first stage of the jump and over the obstacle, they are extended. The potential energy accumulated in the previous stage was used to jump. The horse will start to tuck the forelegs during mid-air and before landing.

Almost all horses arch their neck and back at the peak of the jumping parabole, an action called “bascule”. In theory, a perfect show-jumping horse should make a perfect round bascule shape. A horse with a great bascule looks spectacular. Some horses tend to jump more “flat” compensate for this with extreme power.

The good thing about having a good bascule is that it helps to clear obstacles with less effort. It’s like when pole vaulters arch their backs, doing the impossible not to touch the fence.

As a rider, remember to give the horse as much rein as needed. Also, staying as steady as possible will help to keep the balance. If you apply the aids to help your horse land on the correct lead, do it gently to avoid disturbing him.

The Landing

Horses touch down with one foot first, and the other joins it almost simultaneously. The leg that hits the ground first absorbs about 20 percent more force than the other. As a rider, use the stirrups to absorb the landing force. Also, recover your seat without leaning forward to avoid adding extra weight to your horse’s hands.

Your horse will stop its body rotation by applying force on his forelegs. This prevents him from falling with his nose into the ground. During the final part of the landing, he will make a short stride to recover momentum. After that, he will resume the canter speed he had before the jump, entering the getaway phase.

Summary – The 5 Phases Of Jump

This article completes the mechanics of the five phases of the jump. Let’s make a little summary of each phase:

• Approach: If you see it from the biomechanical side, the approach starts a few strides before the obstacle. It is the phase where the horse collects and accumulates energy to jump. From the rider’s perspective, you should consider the approach before facing the obstacle.
• Takeoff: In this phase, your horse will start clearing the fence. He will unleash all the energy accumulated during the approach and use his legs and back as a spring. The quality of your transition to the jumping position will help him to relieve weight from his back.
• Flight: This is the most exciting part of the jump. Your horse will be in the air. That rewarding second that seems to last forever is why we do all we do. Keeping your balance and your head looking ahead are key to a great jump.
• Landing: You and your equestrian companion reach the ground. In this phase, the horse endures a lot of strain, so it’s important to relieve his stress as much as possible. Your horse will also push to recover his momentum.
• Getaway: Your horse finally leaves the landing zone. It’s important to use your aids and prepare for what’s next. If you are practicing, never stop your horse right after the jump. Doing so may teach a green horse to stop right after the fence. This is not good, especially when you are training to ride courses.

Improving Your Horse’s Jump

Paying attention to your horse’s mechanics can help you improve his jumps. These days, video footage offers excellent help to correct flaws. For example, with the Pivo Equestrian Pack, you can learn a lot about how your horse jumps. You can also check your riding and see what you can improve to help him become a better jumper. Does your horse jump too flat? Don’t worry; you can help your horse with proper jumping gymnastics.

The secret of a perfect jumping technique starts with the flatwork. A well-balanced horse will approach fences better and have stronger hindquarters. Flatwork helps you to develop your horse’s muscles. As you analyze how your horse jumps, you will be able to plan a training schedule and go up. No matter your riding level, it’s always important to count on a riding instructor, a coach, or an experienced rider. Leaving the obvious safety concerns aside, a trained eye from the ground is always helpful.

Another thing to consider is your and your horse’s muscular memory. When you practice, your horse also becomes a better jumper. The key is to be aware of your horse’s level and use jumps properly sized so that your horse can learn without getting overwhelmed. This being said, it’s also essential to give your horse a break. Jumping every time you ride can hurt your horse and bore him.

If you watch different horses jump, you will notice that even horses with similar techniques have their unique way of doing it. It’s fascinating to watch how they learn and love to jump, just like us.

We hope you have enjoyed this series. If you would like to discover more about how horses jump and how to improve their jumping, you will be amazed by the Pivo Silver Equestrian Pack and its ability to track horses and capture their extraordinary movements. With Pivo’s 360 Auto Tracking technology, you can review and analyze your ride conveniently. Record your movements, train via Meet Mode with coaches around the world or send your video for feedback. Pivo lets you film hands-free so you can study your rides, capture precious moments from your show jumping practice and inspire others.

Read more – How To Choose Your Pivo Pod — A Simple Guide!