02/16/2024
The Question Mark Shape
For peak efficiency and optimum balance at the top of a jump, the rider who can be in the shape of a question mark, as this photo so perfectly demonstrates, will be exquisitely positioned between too far forward and too far behind the horse’s motion.
If a straight vertical line were to be drawn upwards, the bottom of which to be placed about where his foot touches the stirrup, that line would pretty much subdivide his weight, half behind the imaginary line, half in front of it.
The upper body folds as a by-product of the hips going back.
Want to learn how to do it right? Copy and study this photo. It is RIGHT HERE.
Most jumping riders do NOT look like this. Even though they may win, aberrations from the physics of perfect balance are NOT AS GOOD as perfection. How high are your standards? Ask yourself that, for a loaded question.
If you have high standards, being a forward toppling rider whose lower legs swing back will not clear the high bar of excellence, so it is totally UP TO YOU.
