Bernster
Well-Known Member
That might have been what I googled last time. Thanks! I think I might have a go with those and see how we get on. It will give me a nudge each time so I can get a better idea for when/why I’m doing it.
Tbh, after reading this thread I'm also tempted to strap my legs still 😂. I have insanely wobbly legs - I'm ok for jumping because the wobble only really shows in trot, but when doing flatwork it does sometimes look like I'm giving a leg aid every stride. I'm not, because I'm not making contact, and ironically my legs are only actually still when I am giving a leg aid.
I have used baler twine in the past. When I was feeling posh, I used spur straps!the symmetry straps were essentially what I made for myself cos I'm a skinflint.
Well done 😀Yes mule I do think that’s part of it (and some nerves). What I’m not sure of is whether the canter is ok and I’m not good at feeling that, or if I’m right and it’s underpowered (in which case I still need a better way of reacting than the big kick).
Anyway I’m pleased to report some early success!! NOT A SINGLE PONY CLUB KICK 😠Early days but if I can keep it up hopefully it’ll start to be muscle memory. What worked was - 2/3 canter poles to a raised pole (helped the canter rhythm), looking up and away from the jump, come in in a light seat/2 point, thinking about weight in the balls of my feet to get the heels down and soles pointing toward the fence, and squeeze not kick. Amazing
I was surprised that the squeeze thing worked as well as it did (thanks!) but if I ever felt like kicking I focussed on squeezing and it felt like a much more secure approach to the fence. V chuffed. We went off for a lovely hack in the sun afterwards too.