English jumpers I have a question!

First off I do western pleasure...I want to know what is it like to jump threw the air? Is it scary? Also I've got a give it to ya you got balls!Also how do you stay on the saddle?Thanks! I couldn't do it!Go you!Really I'm just curious :P

Usually you start off by doing VERY small jumps, practically just trotting over poles, so yeah it can be scary to move up to big jumps but you normally get used to starting small first.

It feels a bit like being on a rollercoaster, your stomach sort of flips as you go over the jump!

As for staying in the saddle, I've never ridden Western so I assume you guys get to hold onto the horn if you feel the need? Well, with English you're really building up muscles you never knew you had, using your butt and legs to stay attached. Using your thighs, calves, butt and keeping some weight in your heels will help you stay in the saddle. It takes a lot of work and I don't recommend anyone try to jump straight away, you really have to work up to it!

Hope that helps :)

Haha thanks! Yes in western you have something to hang on to we could be pretty lucky I guess! Bravo to you though I couldn't do it!!!:P

Jumping is seriously an addicting feeling. It's scary at first and gets your adrenaline pumping!

For me it has always felt pretty natural. I started with ground poles and worked up from there lol so I've never really been scared because it was such a progression. Basically staying in the saddle has a lot to do with having a secure leg position (not gripping mind you) as well has remaining over your horses center of gravity so you just never feel off balance. I love jumping, it is the best!!

Jumping is one of the most amazing adrenaline rushes you can experience! Give yourself a little credit, I'm sure if you took lessons you would be able to get the hang of riding in English tack and could eventually work your way up to small jumps. An instructor will help you learn how to use your body to keep a balanced seat and then work your way up. If you are really interested in it, give it a try! You have nothing to lose, but just make sure you wear a helmet :)

Jumping was about the challenge for me. I cleared that fence, now I have to set up for the next and clear it too. Its a black and white sport with not a whole lot of gray in the middle. You either make the jump or you don't. And clearing the jump depends on timing, speed, forward, balance, correct leg position and aids. Technically every discipline needs those things, but its a lot clearer in jumping because if you lack one, the fence is going down.

The adrenaline is also a catcher. You and the horse are in the air a lot. All 4 feet are up off the ground and you basically fly. Staying in the saddle is a mix of position, timing and balance. Not only is the horse off the ground, but you are out of the saddle during the jump.

I stopped grabbing the saddle horn after my 3rd year of riding. Grabbing it feels unatural and it pitches me forward, something you really don't want in a situation where you feel you need to grab the horn.

To me? Jumping feels like a rocking horse, when it rocks back then forward suddenly. Its not that scary, but I don't jump high and was taught slowly.

Theres a split second of calm and quiet when your in the air over a jump that became the addicting part for me.

For just a half a moment, your off the ground, disconnected. Then all the nose and adrenalin comes back ;)