Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will have a better understanding of horse jumping techniques and be able to practice basic jumps with your horse.

Materials and Prep

Materials needed:

• Helmet
• Proper riding attire
• A horse or pony
• Jumping poles or small obstacles

Before starting the lesson, make sure you have a safe and clear area to practice your jumps. It's important to warm up your horse properly before attempting any jumps.

Activities

• Warm-up: Begin your lesson with a gentle warm-up for both you and your horse. Practice some basic riding exercises to get in sync with your horse.
• Jumping Position: Work on your jumping position by practicing two-point position. This will help you maintain balance and stability over jumps.
• Jumping Practice: Set up a simple jump with poles on the ground. Practice approaching the jump at a trot or canter and focus on your form over the jump.
• Obstacle Course: Create a small obstacle course with a few jumps and practice riding through it smoothly and confidently.

Talking Points

• What is horse jumping?
  "Horse jumping is a sport where a horse and rider jump over obstacles in a timed event. It requires skill, coordination, and trust between the horse and rider."
• Importance of Safety:
  "Always wear your helmet and proper riding attire when practicing horse jumping. Safety should always come first."
• Developing Trust:
  "Building a strong bond with your horse is crucial in horse jumping. Trust and communication are key to successful jumps."
• Practice Makes Perfect:
  "Don't get discouraged if you make mistakes while jumping. Practice regularly and learn from each experience to improve your skills."