You're making me nostalgic for my hunting days! I wonder if it's like riding a bike. It's been easily 20 years since I cleared a jump, but I remember the day Big Al (the thoroughbred I used to ride) and I made it over the four-footer . . . whenever anyone cleared "the wall" for the first time, there was much rejoicing in the stable!
I also remember the time Big Al decided at the very last minute that he didn't want to jump the wall, but would let me go ahead and try it on my own. My head STILL hurts from that one.
I knocked off for law school and pregnancy . . . my OB made me quit in the fourth month - he said he wasn't worried about hurting the baby but about ME getting hurt due to changes in my CG and balance . . . he was right of course. I didn't really get back started again until my oldest was 7 or 8.
But when I climbed back on it was as though I had never been away. I will warn you, however, that while my muscles remembered what to do they were not physically ready for the effort, and I really overdid it the first time out. I was way too interested in finding out what I could still do - lots, but I could barely walk for a couple of days afterwards . . .
Got the opportunity to ride a four-star event horse the other day, he was strong through a combination and I did a little half-halt at number two - and he thought I meant to STOP. So he did. I went forward of the saddle and fetched up on his withers, but I always say it doesn't count if you don't touch the ground . . .
Riding in the rear seat is always the safest option, especially on a horse you don't know.