Jumps must be made out of solid materials to avoid injuring or scaring your horse, and remember that very narrow jumps are only suitable for experienced horses.
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Getting What You'll Need
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If you're planning to make your own jumps with standard measurements, you'll need basic tools including a saw, hammer, drill, sandpaper and screwdriver.
The stands used to hold jumping poles, known as wings or standards, are generally 4 feet in height. To make your own set, you'll need an 8-foot length of 4-by-4-inch wood, two 8-foot lengths of 2-by-4-inch wood, screws, nails and two pairs of jump cups (available online or at saddlery stores).
Measuring for Standard Horse Jumps
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Cut one piece of 4-by-4-inch wood in half. Starting 1 foot from the end, measure 3- or 6-inch increments to mark the position of the jump cups. Using 3-inch increments will allow more flexibility to adjust the height of the finished jump, but will involve more preparation work.
Drill right through the wood at each of the marked points for the jump cups to slot into.
Completing the Jump Stand
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Cut both the pieces of 2-by-4-inch wood into four pieces each measuring 25 inches. Align one piece at right angles to the bottom of the upright, and screw it into position. Add a second piece at right angles to the first, then add both the remaining pieces at right angles so that the feet of the upright form a cross. Repeat the process with the other upright.
Check that the jump stand is sturdy before you try to use it.
Using the Finished Jump
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Set up your finished jump stands. Standard-size jump poles come in 10-foot or 12-foot lengths, and it's best to use two poles rather than one, as it will help your horse to judge the jump. Position one set of jump cups on the bottom setting, and the other set at the required height for your finished jump. If required, you can also add a ground pole resting on the jump feet. Ground poles give a horse a takeoff point and can help inexperienced horses, as well as making the jump more solid and inviting.
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