Vicki Carlson What is the ultimate purpose of the roll top horse jumps? The following article explains the scope of this versatile jump and explains biomechanics. You’ll also learn how combinations are crucial to the jump’s success. And don’t forget to check out our tips and tricks for riding a Roll Top!
Scope
Four variables determine the Scope of a roll top horse jumps: speed, departure angle, body conformation, and the distance traveled when the projectile is released. In simple terms, the faster a horse travels, the higher and broader it’s jump. Like the golf ball that travels further with a more brutal swing, a faster horse will jump higher and farther. Therefore, to maximize the Scope of a Roll Top Horse Jump, it is essential to optimize these variables.
Speed
The speed of a Roll Top Horse Jump is determined by the strength of the equine athlete’s legs. To propel a horse high into the air, the horse’s forelegs must be stretched and rotated, similar to the motion of a pole-vaulter. As a result, the horse’s hind legs extend forward, preparing the animal to jump onto the ground. The horse’s forelegs are not the only muscle group responsible for propulsion, but they also play a significant role in the equine athlete’s performance.
Biomechanics
The Biomechanics of the Roll Top Horse Jump is complex. The horse’s hindquarters propel itself over the jump, and flexion of the stifle joint and the flexion of the fetlock joint, causes the hind legs to fold behind the hindquarters. When the hindquarters reach the top of the jump, the horse’s front end flattens and raises while the forehand descends to the ground. This movement translates into a bascule or a curved trajectory that the horse takes.
Combinations
The order in which the Roll Top Horse Jump elements are introduced will test a horse’s ability more than the distance itself. The combination will require the rider to maintain his horse’s straightness and adjust his stride accordingly. Similarly, the higher the fence is, the less error room there is.
Log fences
Using old telephone poles is a great way to create a log fence for your roll-top horse jump. These poles don’t rot and are replaced by more environmentally friendly equipment. You can find these poles at recycling centers and utility companies. You need to scrutinize them to ensure they are free from nails or copper staples.
Normandy bank
The Normandy bank is a combination of a bank and a ditch. The horse must jump over the bank before reaching a solid fence, usually a drop fence. The variety of obstacles makes this obstacle challenging to navigate, and it is only seen in advanced eventing. The Normandy bank requires a bold jump over the bank and a quick jump off it. This course is designed to challenge both riders and horses.
Hedged arrowhead
The arrowhead is a triangular obstacle on which the horse must jump from the narrow point of the arc to the broader part of the arc. This type of jump is challenging to master and requires a great deal of concentration on the part of the rider who must ride through. In some cases, this can cause the horse to stop and look off to one side when it approaches the arrowhead.
