The USEA Eventing By The Levels Handbook

10 Seats and Positions for Jumping The positions for jumping include all requirements of the Independent Seat. Most early jumping is taught from the Forward Seat. As the rider learns to stay consistently with the motion of the jumping effort in the forward seat, they should learn to transition smoothly between all three seats. The Forward Seat (The two-point position) • The rider's weight is fully out of the saddle with the upper body balanced over a secure lower leg with the weight on the stirrup irons. The Half-seat (The three-point position or light seat) • The rider's weight is evenly distributed between the stirrup irons and the thigh and seat. • The upper body is inclined forward and centered over a secure lower leg. The Full Seat for Jumping • The rider's weight is more in the saddle, but with the upper body inclined slightly forward and centered over a secure lower leg, with some weight still in the stirrups. Seats and Positions for Cross-Country Riding The positions for cross-country riding are based on the three positions for jumping (forward seat, half-seat, full seat for jumping), with variations based on the type of fence, degree of accuracy, pace, and terrain. The Galloping Position (The cruising gallop position) • For galloping longer distances between fences, allowing the horse to be free in the balance with minimal distraction from the rider. • Based on the forward seat, with the rider's weight up and out of the saddle balanced over a secure lower leg position. • The foot may be placed slightly further onto the stirrup iron to provide a more level platform on which to balance. • The hands may rest on the neck, with or without a full or half bridge in the reins, without balancing on the neck. The Rebalancing Position (The preparation position) • The upper body comes more upright from the galloping position. • For adjusting the horse's balance and length of stride as appropriate, from the gallop to the required pace and balance for jumping the fence or question. The timing of changing position relative to the proximity to the fence is determined by the individual horse's ease of adjustability, the type of fence or question, the degree of accuracy re- quired and the influence of the terrain in the approach and on landing. • The rider should assess to what degree they need to change the stride length, increase engagement, and lighten the forehand of the horse for the obstacle, and then main- tain six or more strides of the appropriate rhythm, speed, and balance in the approach to the fence. The Approach Position • Based on the half-seat or full seat for jumping, depending on the type of fence and the shape of the face of the fence (upright, sloped), the degree of accuracy and the influence of terrain. • The rider should maintain a consistent speed, balance and rhythm generated during the rebalancing phase. The Jumping Position • The rider should remain in connection and communication with the horse in the air through leg and weight aids, and by maintaining an elastic contact with the horse's mouth, without restricting the jumping effort or balancing against the horse's mouth. • Many variations of the forward or half-seat may be em- ployed depending on the type of fence or question, degree of accuracy and terrain influence.

• Cover