How do I get over my fear of jumping?

Let’s take a look in more detail of ways you can help combat these fears and enjoy jumping your horse.

Balance. The rider’s balance plays a very significant role when jumping.
The 5 Stages of Jumping.
Position.
Fitness and Strength.
Polework.
Raised Poles.
Keep it simple – use cross poles.
Jump from working trot.

How do I give my horse confidence?

If you want your horse to be confident in a certain situation, the best thing you can do is to keep putting your horse in similar situations. For example: if your horse lacks confidence on trail rides, keep practicing going on the trails and introduce them to a variety of different paths.

Why do ponies refuse jumps?

Horses regularly refuse to do certain movements and jumps in order to protect themselves from pain. If the horse has previously felt pain while jumping they may simply be refusing in order to project an injury. Try and pinpoint any musculoskeltal injuries or ascertain if your horse is limping.

Why does my horse stop at jumps?

Stopping can often be a sign of discomfort somewhere, especially if the behaviour is new and uncharacteristic for your horse. Your horse’s teeth, back, legs, shoeing and saddle fit are the first things that should be professionally checked.

Is jumping a horse scary?

It doesn’t matter what level of horse rider you are or how long you’ve been riding, jumping can at times be scary. Furthermore, often when just beginning to jump, it can be hard to get over the initial nerves that are involved with a new experience, that, although exciting, can also be daunting.

What do you do when your horse refuses to jump?

If your horse refuses a jump, don’t rush! Be patient and try again at a slower speed so that you can control the situation better if he refuses once again. Try not to turn around or let him run out. Gently encourage him to jump and give rewards after he jumps correctly.