Hunter/Jumper (H/J) is a competitive equestrian sport which has similarities to both show jumping and dressage. However, the two sports differ in many ways and have distinct rules and styles.In show jumping, competitors attempt a sequence of fences with differing heights, distances and types of obstacles. The goal is to jump each fence with the fewest faults (i.e. mistakes), measured by the height difference between the horse’s two front hooves at the point of landing. In H/J, competitors ride at a moderate speed over a course while jumping a series of obstacles designed to test different aspects of the horse and rider’s skill, such as jumping ability, conformation and natural ability. H/J often involves dressage-like elements such as collection, which is the ability for a horse to remain focused and relaxed during a jumping course. The sport is particularly popular in some parts of the world, such as the United Kingdom, where the British Equestrian Team has won Olympic gold medals for many years.
The typical dressage saddle is made of a light frame of wood covered with leather, and it is designed to be comfortable for a horse. The seat (bottom) of the saddle is padded, and the stirrups are adjustable, which allows the rider to fit their leg properly.A show jumping saddle is made of a very light metal frame with a padded seat. The stirrups are also adjustable, and special stirrup fittings are used to help the rider maintain balance and keep their legs correctly positioned.
There are three main phases in jumping (and in all sports): preparation, take-off and landing. Each discipline has its own particular set of jumping techniques which must be mastered by the rider and their horse in order to perform well in competition.The ideal position for the rider is relaxed with their legs slightly apart. The rider should also keep their hands away from the reins and place them in a relaxed position. The rider should be ready to take control of the horse at any time, but they must never let go of the reins.All three phases of jumping require careful timing and co-ordination between horse and rider, so the rider must be fully focused on the jump being undertaken.
There are five types of jump in show jumping:- cross-rail, vertical, water, vertical intermediate and double. The type of jump varies according to the terrain and the skill of the rider.Cross-rail: This is a very simple jump, which is ideal for beginners. It can be undertaken at any level of competition and is usually made of wood or plastic. Vertical: This is a very high jump and is usually made of wood or metal. It is usually used in Grand Prix competitions.Water: This is a very wide jump and is usually made of wood or plastic. Vertical intermediate: Also known as a "sandwich jump," this is a very wide jump, with a wooden vertical jump on either side. Double: This is a very high and wide jump, which starts with a wooden vertical intermediate jump, followed by another wooden vertical jump. It can be either single- or double-sided.
Jumping styles are similar to dressage styles, as both sports have an emphasis on the rider’s position and the horse’s performance.There are three main types of jumps:The striding jump: This is the most challenging jump type, as it requires a lot of energy from the horse. This jump type is often used in the top-level of competition, where the rider is required to show off their horse’s natural ability. The rider must sit very upright, keeping their hands low and close to the horse’s mouth. The horse should be allowed to move freely on the approach, with no tight rein pressure.When jumping the striding jump, the rider must always keep their hands away from the reins. The horse must always be allowed to settle before the rider makes any kind of tight rein contact.
A show jumper is a rider who competes in show jumping (H/J). Competitions are held at national and international levels, but unlike in dressage, the horse does not perform, but rather the rider’s performance is evaluated.The horse and rider must be in top physical condition, as jumping is a high-intensity sport and can be very exhausting.The rider must be fully prepared for the intensity of the competition.
A hunter/jumper (H/J) is a horse show competitor who jumps both cross-rails and vertical/water fences. H/J is a style of equestrian competition which combines elements of show jumping and dressage. The rider jumps the horse over cross-rails and vertical/water fences.Hunter/jumpers are judged on their general performance and how cleanly the horse jumps. The rider must be very fit and capable of controlling the horse during the course.
Hunter/jumpers are a very high-level equestrian sport. The horse and rider must be in top physical condition in order to compete. The rider must be fully prepared for the intensity of the competition.