Fancy learning to jump – without the risk of a horse refusing and you making an unscheduled exit out the side door?
A new jumping simulator has been produced by Racewood – which already produces dressage, polo and racing simulators – on which to practise cross-country and showjumping.
“It’s the first jumping simulator on the market,” said Bill Greenwood from Racewood, who explained the machine was developed due to popular demand.
“It has leg sensors, which respond to pressure – like on a real horse – as well as sensors on the bit, saddle and stirrups.”
The “horse” will do a perfect jump every time – but will show on screen if your balance is off or you’re relying on a “neckstrap”.
“It’s about building confidence, and eliminating faults,” Mr Greenwood added.
“It’s a great tool for assessing people before putting them on an actual horse and there are levels from novice to advanced.”
The simulator costs from £50,000 and will be on sale from Christmas.
For more information visit www.racewood.com
To watch the simulator in action visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zCrDkl4YOzs
This news story was first published in the current issue of Horse & Hound (13 October, 2011)
