Two-point

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Two-point is a position in English horse-back riding used when jumping, named because the rider has two points (both legs) in contact with the saddle. It consists of supporting yourself using leg and stirrup, keeping the heels down, closing the hip angle, and lifting the buttocks out of the saddle while keeping the head and shoulders up.

This position is held on the flat and over fences. When used over a jump, it is usually referred to as "jumping position" rather than two-point. It may also sometimes be referred to as "galloping position."

[edit] Jumping a fence

When executed correctly, the two-point should allow the rider balance during a jump. Better balance can be gained by pressing deeper in the heels, and holding the calves tighter to the horse.

A common fault in the two-point is 'jumping ahead' when the rider goes into the two-point position too early and tries to jump for her mount. One should go into the two-point position as their horse begins the jump, so that the movement of their mount carries them into the two-point.

[edit] On the flat

On the flat, or when used on course between jumps, the two-point position allows the horse to have a great deal of freedom because the rider's weight is lifted off their back. It is therefore the usual position for riders while galloping and riding between fences on straight and level ground. However, it provides very little control, so is used along with the half-seat or "three-point" position, and the full-seat, both of which offer varying degrees of seat contact to give the rider extra control.

Position in two-point varies according to the task. Hunter riders generally have a very upright two-point, as they usually show on very level footing and at slower speed. Eventers may have a more crouched position, usually with the heel slightly more forward while riding cross-country, to provide more security as they ride over varying terrain at a fast gallop.