European young rider gold medallist Will Fletcher and grand prix rider and coach Joao Charlesworth emphasize that while not all horses naturally tuck their knees or achieve a perfect bascule, improving a horse’s jumping technique can enhance safety and competitiveness. Fletcher notes that many successful showjumpers, like Embassy and Milton, had unconventional front leg techniques but compensated with power and carefulness. Both experts agree that although a neat fold is desirable, horses with less classic techniques can still jump clear rounds if they are brave and well-prepared.

Conformation plays a key role in a horse’s jumping style, with horses having long, sloping shoulders generally finding it easier to bring their knees up than those with straighter shoulders. While some horses may dangle their legs due to conformation or lack of strength, gridwork and targeted exercises can help young or inexperienced horses develop neater front leg action over time. Fletcher and Charlesworth recommend building core strength, confidence, and quick reflexes through specific training routines, including adding ground poles and using short distances with ground rails, to sharpen a horse’s technique and encourage more efficient jumping.