Today, my instructor Holly was kind enough to share a jumping exercise that I jokingly refer to as the Circle of Death. There are lots of variations on this exercise, but it basically consists of jumping a series of obstacles set so that the rider jumps them while riding in a circle. We use it frequently in lessons because it helps to train the rider's eye in terms of what track to follow to the jump and where to take off at the base of the jumps. I have also found it helpful to break the habit of jumping ahead and keep my body back. If you jump ahead in the Circle of Death, you will know it and it does not have the most pleasant results!
This is a brand new blog written by me, Erin the Webmaster. I am an amateur adult rider and after many years of day dreaming, waiting, and saving, finally purchased my "dream horse" just before Christmas. This blog will feature my musings about the wonderful sport of hunter jumper riding and equitation. Additionally, it will chronical my adventures with new horse, Patrick.
To add a different perspective, my professional trainer, Holly Lohmann Stello will also contribute to this blog. Holly was a top junior rider not so very long ago and is now an emerging professional coach and rider based in Southern Maryland. Learn more about Holly by visiting her website, http://www.hollystello.com/. We look forward to sharing the adventures of Team Patrick/Erin/Holly! |