The automatic release is an essential skill in every good rider’s toolbox. The use of it promotes a soft elastic connection with the mouth that follows the horse’s neck (bascule) over a jump. Additionally, the automatic release or following arms, illustrates the independence of the rider’s seat and legs. In this topic Jim Hagman, founder and head coach of Elvenstar (one of the West Coast’s most successful show stables), presents his formula for introducing and perfecting this, the most advanced release. Joining Jim as demonstrator is his superstar student, Sydney Hutchins, whose mastery of the automatic release was evident recently during her two giant wins - the 2014 Platinum Performance/USEF Show Jumping Talent Search Finals West and the 2014 ASPCA Maclay Regionals West!

Running Time: 6 minutes and 31 seconds

Other Videos in This Series:

Teaching the Automatic Release - The Hagman Formula, Part 1

Teaching the Automatic Release - The Hagman Formula, Part 2

Dubai Show Jumping coach, Alice Debany Clero, joins us to share techniques she’s developed throughout her long and impressive international career. In part one of her series of topics, Alice shows how horse and rider can iron out problems with no concussion of the legs, no mental stress and no accidents using pole exercises. The goal is to teach the horse to have a good time while learning the job of show jumping.

Running time: 16 minutes and 45 seconds

Click here to get to know Alice Debany Clero in her In the Spotlight interview

Here is another priceless look back at some archival footage filmed by Gordon Wright & narrated by George Morris. This time we get a glimpse of Mason Phelps' amazing production, the American Jumping Derby. This challenging and rugged derby brought the grit of European show jumping to the U.S. courtesy of Mr. Phelps. Held at his stunning family estate in Rhode Island, the Derby was truly a gem of the show jumping circuit from 1976 through 1988.

Running Time: 4 minutes and 49 seconds

Advanced Gymnastic Training of the Horse - Part One

Once again, EquestrianCoach is proud to present Bertalan de Nemethy’s classical principles of teaching and training. Bert was a pioneer in the use of gymnastic exercises and believed them to be an essential tool in the sophisticated training of jumpers. The trainer, of course, must rely on common sense and observation when using gymnastics, with careful consideration paid to the horse’s training level and disposition. The incorporation of gymnastics into a horse’s training program will enhance elasticity, agility, strength and coordination. In this first installment of his gymnastic topics, a trotting approach through cavallettis regulates the horse’s speed while the adjustability of the horse’s stride is the focus. 

Running Time: 16 minutes and 51 seconds