by L Hurley

Created on: July 04, 2010

Cross country jumping can be a new and exciting experience for horses and riders alike. Even if you don't want to compete it can provide some much needed relief from the boredom of a regular training routine. Cross country does have a level of risk higher than riding dressage or show jumping so you need to be sure that you and your horse have some prerequisite skills before starting out.

Competencies

You and your horse need to be comfortable riding in open areas. Most horses get excited when they're in open areas with other horses. Even your laziest horse will become lively when you take them out of the arena. Do lots of trail riding to get your horse used to different sights and sounds.

Before you begin jumping cross country you should be able to control your horse on the flat in walk, trot, canter and gallop. You also need to be competent and confident jumping show jumps. You don't need to be able to jump huge fences but cross country brings additional challenges. If you can't quietly complete a clear round in the arena practice a bit more before going out cross country.

Once you can do these two things you have everything you need to ride a cross country course safely. While cross country courses are usually ridden at canter and gallop it is often better to do your first training ride around a course at a trot.

What to expect

Cross country jumps are solid. They do not knock down or fall apart like show jumps will. Your horse will recognize this and will put more effort into clearing cross country jumps. He will jump higher over a two foot stone wall than he will over a two foot vertical in the show jumping ring.

Riding through water is a new experience for many horses. If you haven't ridden through water on the trails your horse may try to jump the water on a cross country course. You may be required to jump into water or canter through it in a cross country competition, but you will not be asked to jump over it. If your horse jumps the water take him back and get him to walk through it.

Banks and drops will be new to you and your horse if you have only ever jumped in the show jumping ring. Banks are ridden in the same way you would a show jump. On your first go round you may want to get into jumping position a stride before the bank so you are ready. You may also need to apply a stronger leg to ensure your horse understands you want him to jump up on to the bank.

Of all cross country jumps, drops seem to be the most worrying to new cross country riders. Approach a drop sitting deep in the saddle with your weight pushed down into your stirrups. As your horse jumps down lean back and allow your reins to slide through your fingers. Give him enough rein to stretch his neck down but don't lose the contact. As you land, sit straight and collect up your reins.

Between fences

It is important to walk a cross country course before riding it. The ground surface can vary widely on a course and you won't be able to see the detail when you are cantering or galloping across it. Check the surface for uneven ground, soft boggy areas and really hard surfaces. This will allow you to adjust your speed or line when riding the course to select the best footing.

Many people don't ride cross country courses because they believe the sport is too dangerous. However, with the right preparation, cross country jumping can be a safe and fun activity for both you and your horse.

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