Keeping the lower leg still when jumping

Hello! When you challenge yourself and do things your body has not done many times, it is easy to tense up, which is a completely natural survival instinct that everyone has, and that can produce unwanted effects.

Step 1️⃣ in making a change is becoming aware that the unwanted behaviour is happening, and when. You have that one ✅

Step 2️⃣ is knowing what you want your body to do instead, and you can practise that off the horse, mentally and in the saddle.

So how do you go about it?

The key is balance. However high the horse jumps, you need to stay in your own balance rather than balancing through the horse. Usually the leg swings back because you are gripping with the knee against the saddle, so as you fold forward with your upper body, your lower leg and foot naturally swing back.

Over the fence, try to be softer against the saddle with your leg and find your balance straight down over the stirrup. Press the heel down and the lower leg slides forward instead, giving you the opposite problem, so imagine you have marbles in the soles of your shoes that must not roll forward to the toe or back to the heel.

Your weight should sit directly above your feet so that you are in your own balance.

How can you train without the horse?

Balance work, dynamic strength and general fitness all help you on your way.

How can you train mentally?

Picture how you want it to feel over the fence. See it in front of you and feel how you want it to be.

Good luck!