Phases of the Jump

The Four Phases of a Jump

  Approach

The horse: Accurately places all 4 legs during the final stride before the take off over the jump.

The rider: Keeps an even steady rhythm and looks straight ahead to the jump.

Take Off

The horse: Pauses slightly to prepare hind legs to lift off  and over the jump.

The rider: Transfers all weight in to their heels and slightly leans forwards to prepare to go over the jump.

Flight

The horse: Creates an arch ( U shape) over the jump and brings up hind legs to avoid knocking the jump.

The rider: Maintains leg and heel position and follows the motion of  the horse's neck by releasing hands and allowing freedom for horse to jump.

Landing

The horse: Lands on the non leading foreleg of the gait (movement) first before other legs follow.

The rider: Sinks into heels to absorb impact of the landing and lean back into current riding position.