Once you start jumping, it is very tempting to focus on that, and neglect flatwork. However, and I think George Morris would agree, this is a huge mistake, and one that riders would do well to avoid.

Each week should contain a session dedicated to flatwork, focusing on refining aids, suppling via lateral moves and, in my opinion, no stirrup work. For adults, and eventers, I don't think this is an much of an issue. But, I can certainly understand wanting to do nothing but jump, especially if you're young and agile. It's exhilarating, and the rush of adrenalin is fantastic.

For me, I enjoy working on lateral moves. It really hones my coordination, and helps develop my weaker side. While a shoulder-in may seem inconsequential to the overall education of horse and rider, I can assure you that it is not. Those little aids that you perform must be done with near precision, or, your horse will not understand the question.

I know many people are fortunate to own their own horse, and ultimately, that is my goal. However, every now and again, the rider should deliberately set out to ride other horses, perhaps other schooling horses if available, or take a lesson with another trainer at another barn. For me, this has been the ultimate teaching tool, as I have learned that every horse listens and reacts to the question differently. Some horses have a bouncy, near impossible trot. Perfect for really developing your seat at the sitting trot so you don't have that "sack of potatoes" look. Some horses are incredibly heavy on the forehand. Perfect for learning how to re-balance and redistribute. Some horses get hot, while others are incredibly dull. And so on, and so forth.

Flatwork is the one area where you establish your trusty, basic, go-to toolbox. And like all good tools, you want to take care that those tools get neither rusty, nor broken.

On a totally different note, my husband bought me a helmet cam to wear while jumping. We shall see how this works out! I wish I would have had it when I lost my stirrup over a fence this past Sunday; that would have been something to experience!