How to train my horse to jump?????

[Kate_13]

My little chap is new to jumping and poles! I would like to know the best way to teach him to jump.

I have started with basic pole work and lunging over small fences. I am taking it slowly, not overfacing him (or myself!)and working up from ground work to ridden work.

I am no showjumper, so any advice on how to do it properly would be great as I'd love to take him to a 2ft clear round by the end of the summer.

 

[JoBo]

Well we have found with our youngster that following an older more experienced horse has really helped. It seems to have given him a lot more confidence. We have just started of with little cross poles and then built it up slowly. They soon get the idea.

 

[WelshRareBit]

Ive always found XC and fun rides etc good for starting off keeps it really fun and enjoyable. Not that Ive had a young horse, but have ridden a few and thats how theyve been started. xx

 

[Theresa_F]

If you can afford it, get in a professional who starts them and really know what they are doing.

I started Jemima with tiny cross poles and built up and had lessons with someone who is a very good show jumper.

 

[MagicMelon]

Just have fun with it, dont do too much and never over-face babies. Keep sessions short and sweet and maybe just once / twice a week.

And as you admit your no showjumper - maybe get a few lessons if you can with him? I find its always useful to take babies to lessons as it gets them used to working away from home in a strange environment which is excellent pratice for competitions! Good luck, its so much fun teaching babies to jump - best bit for me!