5 Riding Tips From The Legend George Morris!

1. Create impulsion: The hind leg is where it starts, you want to feel as if you are pushing the horses head down. It’s important to give and take, he added: “When I feel the outside rein and the horse comes back, I instantly give.” (George Morris)

2. Keep him straight: George reminds riders to use inside legs at the girth to press the horses into the outside reins to develop and maintain straightness, this is essential for back-to-front collection.

3. Lighten up: Being light on the horses back with the hips angles closed and upper body forward about 30 degrees allows for smoother and softer ride keeping riders from disturbing the horses.

4. Riding with pace to the base: When riders see the distance to the jump, ride past it just a bit, so the horse jumps up from the base of the fence. “Pace to the base” George Morris explained.

5. Practice what is difficult: Riders often try to protect themselves and the horses and don’t teach the horses to do things out of their comfort zone. Learn not to “freak out” or get nervous, embrace the obstacle and teach the horse and yourself to trust each other.

6. Stay positive: Don’t be nervous or tentative because a horse will sense that and doubt whether she should jump or not, give them confidence!