Look Ma! No Hands!

This is how I have my students do their first jump. Set up a chute on the long side of the arena, with a single low crossrail in the middle. Students enter the chute at a working trot, drop reins (secure them to the saddle with a grab strap if preferred), stretch arms out to the sides and trot the fence. Pick up reins before exiting the chute. This teaches riders how to find balance in light seats and the two-point without relying on their hands.For more advanced students, consider setting up a gymnastic of lower fences. This gymnastic could lead to a higher fence.