Jumping Position Help please!

[3Beasties]

I seem to have developed a really bad jumping position! Instead of folding forward I seem to stand up in the stirrups and throw myself forward which makes me look like a complete wolly!

Any ideas on how to sort myself out?

 

[Kenzo]

I started doing this a while back and still do, I know I'm doing it, that's the annoying thing, I could kick myself when I do it

But I was only doing it when I was jumping in a straight cut GP saddle, I found I developed that position from using that type of saddle for years, although you can do it in any saddle so not just the saddles fault, but when I changed saddles, I could actually fold and adjust my leathers a lot shorter to enable me to work on my jumping position, but also because I was aware of it also, I do still have to try and keep my bum parked, open my hips, use my calves instead of my knees (the old £5 note trick) and just sit sit sit instead of hovering when approaching a jump.

and I still do it at times but its slowly getting better...I hope!

 

[Kat]

Firstly you need to make sure your stirrups are short enough. Even if you think they are whack them up a couple more and see if it is easier! I know in the olden days they used to say stirrups up two holes for jumping but you probably need to go up four ish.

Secondly I will pass on the special secret of correct jumping position.

You have to think of the "hover" position you use when going to the loo in yucky public toilets. You know when you don't want to sit on the seat, so you stick your bum out and balance....... that is the feel you need over the fence, so not forward more bum out. Turn your toes slightly out so you aren't gripping with your knees, stick your bum out and think about closing your shoulders to your knees.

 

[Sparkles]

Baaaareback

 

[3Beasties]

Baaaareback

Haha, your have got to be kidding!

Do you know how painful it is to ride THIS bareback!!!

Thanks for the other suggestions, will wack my stirrups up tomorrow and practice the toilet position The £5 trick is a good idea (I must remember to try that on the kids).

Kenzo the funny thing is that I do sit going into the fence as Charlie went through a very bad phase of refusing at the last minute, I feel more secure sitting as I think I am less likely to go over his head if he slams on the breaks!

 

[Sparkles]

Hehehe I have the same with my Tb lad Nice Mark Tod Gelly saddlepad I forked out on has been well worth it!