Showjumping Tips??????????????

Question

I am currently startingto compete at BSJA novice level on my 14.1 pony, he is extremely good at jumping and loves it but we seem to have problems turning into a jump (it takes him a while to turn). also he is very quick to run out his inside shoulder. So does anyone have any tips on how to turn him a bit sharper and quicker. Thanks

Answer 1

use lots of ground work and bending. take your reins and unbuckle them from each other sou hav one in each hand then using your legs turn him using the outside rein and follow with the leg like western reining start at the walk then trot canter lope and gallop  use voice cues also for a reminder  

Answer 2

lots of practicing at home wil help - also shorter reins for turning will benefit you and will also help if he trys to run out - when approaching a jump, alway expect him to run out, so have a short rein on that side so if he goes to you are prepared and can quickly react by pulling him back into the jump

Answer 3

For the turning - is it one way or the other or both ways?

Lots of outside leg and the stick in the outside hand to remind him to turn.  Just use the stick down his shoulder.

Practice lots of turns on the flat and also when jumping use a Fulmer snaffle or cheek prickers to help you in the turning..  The bit will not go through his mouth and the prickers could help too.  

Check his back and his mouth also that he does not have pain and stiffness anywhere.  Again, on the flat you should do lots of turns, serpentines etc.  Also give him plenty of room to turn.  Not all ponies find it easy.  Remember to take into account that they are long in the body and cannot turn on a sixpence.

Answer 4

Try making it fun for him by practising bending races.

Hope you are using your legs!

Answer 5

carry a whip on the side he runs out on  

Answer 6

Take a clinic with Daniel Stewart if you ever get the chance!!! he does this exercise called "The Zipper" it is designed for failure basically, its all about finding the shortest fastest route when show jumping.....really makes you work on your turns! Its super hard to explain in words, but you can email me and Ill send you a picture of it an how to do it.. It was one of the BEST jumping exercises Ive ever done! :)

Good Luck..hope this helps! :)

Answer 7

be sure and do plenty of flatwork to make your pony aware of what you want him to do!! Make him bend around your leg to head off in the direction you want  him to - practice over lots of gridwork and practice making sharp turns after your fences - a good showjumper is prepped for competitions at home - practice makes perfect and its never truer said than in showjumping! You need  your pony to read your mind almost before you know where you're going for next and to achieve a partnership like this you need lots of schooling!!

xx