Why I’m Obsessed With Show Jumping
/It's showtime, baby. This article is all about show jumping! If you're looking for more information on what the equestrian sport entails, why I love it, and how to know if you have what it takes to saddle up, keep reading!
The world of show jumping is a passion of mine, and I want to share the information I have on this thrilling equestrian sport! Please comment with your own experiences and notes!
Why Do People Love Show Jumping?
They adore the sport and appreciate spending time with the animals. They do it for something new, to learn, to have a unique experience; it's a sport that's fun to progress and advance.
Some show jumpers do it to measure themselves — To get a sense of what they can achieve. To be able to control a horse on a showjumping course is not easy. However, some riders say they love to show jumping because flying is a fantastic experience. And of course, it's just for fun.
Show jumping is a test of the partnership between horse and rider.
Some people say show jumping is a test of the sport horse, others say it is a test of the rider and horse as a partnership. Both are right. The course tests the horse’s athleticism and agility – nerve and quickness – and tests the rider’s precision and accuracy – fitness and conditioning – and responsiveness – flexibility and cooperation.
How Is Show Jumping a Sport?
The course tests the horses' athleticism, agility, and traction and tests the riders' precision, accuracy, and responsiveness. Another factor is the time required to complete the course.
Bottom Line: The competitor who has the fastest time with 0 faults wins. There is nothing subjective about show jumping.
What Kind of Athlete is A Show Jumper?
Show jumping is a sport dominated by riders who have:
Impeccable balance
Quick reactions
Strategizing skills
Advanced level of athleticism
Wellness Benefits to Show Jumping
Show jumping quiets the mind and releases positive neurochemicals.
Helps the rider's mind and body be prepared for anything. It builds confidence and mindfulness.
Each stride is timed and measured, making you calmer and more able to focus on scaling obstacles.
Show jumping can help with confidence in any area of life.
Brave, Hard-Working, & Tough
Some non-riders don't understand equestrians because of it can be life-threatening, dangerous, time-consuming, costly, and a lot of work.
What I’ve Learned from My Horseback Riding Trainer
1. Break the course into parts
2. Clean and warm up your horse before you show
3. Memorize each fence and jump with confidence and accuracy
4. Ride with a smooth and steady hand
5. Watch your approach and do not rush the fences
6. If your horse stops, ask them to continue forward – do not panic or pull on the reins
7. Do not doubt your ability (goal oriented)
8. Set small goals to conquer large ones
