How to Canter a Horse Over the Jump in Two-Point Position

Two-point position is when the horseback rider shifts her weight entirely out to the saddle and balances on the stirrups, with her knees as the other point to stabilize the position. Your hands float in the air directly in front of you, in line with your belt buckle, no more than 4-inches apart. This is the only position a rider should take when jumping obstacles.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Set up the obstacle with a clear line ahead and behind. Make sure that you have a pole on the ground at the base of the jump to provide a guide and no other obstacles in your path.
2. Forming a circle, move from a trot into a full, controlled canter. Move your body into your two-point position. Allow sufficient rein for the horse to use their head to balance when approaching the jump.
3. Balance your weight evenly in your stirrups, forcing your heel down as far as possible and using your knees as a pivot. Do not lean your weight on the horse's neck, but use the mane to ensure that your hands do not slip back and cause you to pull on the horse's bit.
4. Canter out of the circle to the jump. Keep your upper body still. Stay in your two-point position, coming off the jump. Maintain your canter at the same speed and complete a circle to finish the skill. Hold your two-point position during the circle.

Tips & Warnings

• Jumping while in a fully seated position in a canter is very difficult, as the center of your balance is too far back and will cause the horse back strain.