Hi Paige,
It’s difficult to give advice about specific riding issues, online, because there are so many factors that go into good riding. I can give you general ideas but please make sure they will work safely for you before you try them. Ask your instructor to help with the exercises.
Most of the time we need help with ourselves and help with the horse. If your horse lugs or is heavy on the forehand, I would suggest gymnastic jump (grids). Grids will cause him to use his body in a more athletic way.

Most of the jumping ahead of the horse issues I see stem from an over dependence on the crest release. My recommendation, if you have a safe area and a safe horse, is to jump without reins holding your arms out to the sides like an airplane. Also riding on the flat without reins will help your balance. If you can’t do any of this, try taking a few lunging lessons on the flat.

If your left side is not as strong as your right, try working out off the horse to balance your strength.

Ok these are very general answers. I’ll write a post soon to cover these things in more depth. Thanks for asking your question and best luck to you. Barbara

Chloe,
Thanks for reading The Riding Instructor. It would be hard to help with personal riding skills without seeing you ride. My best suggestion would be to have a good instructor and as many hours on a horse as you can. Best wishes. Barbara

*I, *Unmounted

Melissagt – Thank you! I’m really happy that it helped. Barbara

Dear Bennett,
I’m always encouraged when I know I helped someone. Thank you for your comment. Barbara