Trouble-free doubles
Twice the fun or double the stress? Showjumping pro Yazmin Pinchen explains how to make clearing combinations worry-free
Yazmin Pinchen’s advice on jumping combination fences with confidence
“Straightness is key during jumping, especially when there’s more than one fence,” says Yazmin. “The best place to start is on the flat. Work on coming off the track — so that your horse isn’t relying on having a fence to aim for — and riding in a straight line.”
JUMPING TWO FENCES in a row sounds straightforward enough but getting it right is a lot more technical than you might think. Once you’re over the first, you have to think about sitting up, riding forwards and keeping straight — all the while making sure your horse doesn’t veer out to one side. To help take the stress away from tackling doubles, Yazmin Pinchen, showjumping star and Dodson & Horrell ambassador, recommends breaking them down into simple steps, which will help you develop the essential skills you need in order to go clear. “With doubles, you need straightness and a nice approach,” explains Yazmin. “Make sure you can keep your horse in a straight line, respecting the first jump. Once over the first part, you quickly need to sit up tall so that you’re ready for the next.” Ready to get started? Set a double at a height you’re comfortable with along one side of your school or arena and have a go at the following exercises.
How to ride it
a) Canter large around your school on the right rein. b) When your horse feels balanced, come off the track onto the threequarter line. c) Focus your gaze on a point ahead. d) Canter towards this point, keeping your horse straight. e) Go back to the track, change the rein. f) Repeat in the other direction. BACK A STEP: If you’re struggling in canter, try the exercise in trot first.
MEET THE EXPERT
YAZMIN PINCHEN is an international showjumper and a brand ambassador for Dodson & Horrell, the horse feed specialists. She has represented Britain worldwide and is aiming for the 2020 Olympics. Visit yazminpinchen.co.uk and dodsonandhorrell.com.
Once over the first jump, you quickly need to sit up tall so you’re ready for the next