Learning to jump

After a rider has learned the fundamentals of forms and control, she or he can begin learning to jump. Such lessons are very useful in teaching balance and developing the rider's confidence. This illustration shows several of the stages involved when teaching the horse and the rider to jump. For example, a horse untrained in jumping should gradually become accustomed to the task, first being led over poles placed intervals on the ground. This procedure is repeated at a trot, and then with the rider mounted. Another jumping exercise uses cavalletti, squared-off poles supported at each end by an x-shaped support Cavalletti can be stacked to from a fence, or placed singly at various intervals on the ground or in other combinations Schooling both rider and horse over cavalletti develops balance and rhythm.