Jumping is not all that complicated, like Dukedogsmom stated- if you are looking to compete then it's a whole different ballgame. If you just want to get some poles and make some simple oxers for lessons to improve your skill it is easy to learn. Anything dealing with horses can't be learned overnight, it will take some time, just like you mentioned. Go to a book store, tack store, or library and see what books you can find on jumping to learn more about it- or search around on the internet. There are TONS of good books on jumping that will get you started in the right direction. I also watch my friend Laura during her jumping lessons, she is an extremely good jumper and her horse is amazing- I have learned a lot just from watching those two in the ring and talking to Laura first hand. I hope to start jumping lessons this summer with Laura as my instructor. Maybe you could find someone who is a good jumper and watch them and learn through observation!?! I have jumped Western too and the first thing I learned is the horn hurts.......thank goodness I've avoided the horn ever since!!