Q: How do you jump a dogleg?
A: A dogleg is a curved line from one fence to another to test your control and reactions. They are particularly challenging when they are incorporated into a shorter related distance. By looking towards the second fence in the dogleg when jumping the first, you position your shoulders in the direction you want to travel and your horse is more likely to land on the correct lead to jump the second element of the the dogleg. You can also bring your outside leg back and put a feel on the inside rein to further encourage and help your horse to land on the correct leg. The aim is to have sufficiently good control and rhythm on landing to take the right number of strides between the two fences, which requires planning where to turn on to the line for the second fence. To ride a good line, keep your eye focused on the top of the front element of the second fence. Maintain a good contact with your outside rein and leg to discourage your horse from drifting through the outside shoulder in the turn. If this happens you could practice at home using poles to create tramlines to ride through, or to ride inside. This will help your horse to ride the best line to tackle the second element more easily.