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Hello! I just have started to horseback ride a little while ago, and am currently learning how to canter a horse. The stable I ride at is incredible, and my lesson horse is a beautiful bay quarter horse. His name is Paul, and he is the sweetest horse I have ever been around. He has a very smooth trot, and he has been amazing to learn on. The only problem is, I have trouble cantering with Paul. He is very hard to control while cantering, and often doesn't listen to me. I have tried cantering with him for a while and every time, I fall off promptly. I´m starting to lose hope on cantering, and I dread the time when my trainer tells me to try again. Does anybody have any tips for me? |
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If you are just learning to canter, i suggest doing so on a lunge line, so you dont have to focus on controlling the horse. You should be working on learning your seat and how to be comfortable at the canter before worrying about controlling the horse.
Maybe ask to learn on the lunge? |
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Thank you! That´s a great idea, I´ll ask to do that next lesson! |
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While on the lunge line, relax your legs as much as you can without him breaking and push down into the stirrups. The canter is a lot about relaxing into it and letting the horse carry you. |
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I agree with Jello, ask your trainer to try on the lunge line :) while you are cantering sit deep in your seat with your heals down and breathe/relax :) if you have any questions don't be afraid to PM me :D <3
also are you riding western or english? |
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Thank you so much for the advice everyone!
Also, I am currently riding english, and I hope to get into dressage! |
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Learning to canter is so fun! Good luck.
Like the others have said, a lunge is a great idea to help build confidence and develop your seat.
I know it can be hard, but try to focus on keeping your muscles relaxed. When you tense up, it encourages horses to go faster. School horses should be better about not doing it, but not all horses are the best at it. Using a lunge would probably help, as you'll feel more relaxed.
Best of luck! |
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definitely try on the lunge line. this will build your confidence and help your learning process. |
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One thing that may seem stupid to most, but remember to breathe! For the longest time I would stop breathing while cantering, and when I did in very small gulps of air. It makes the horse tense and more bouncy. Remember to sink your heels really far into your stirrups, sit up tall, and have a quality trot before asking.
I personally hate cantering on a lunge line even when learning, the constant circle put me more off balance to start with
Something I have done for other riders and have had done for me when I was learning, was a experienced rider doubling with you for the first few canters. They will control all aspects, so all you have to do is relax and feel the motion without worrying.
Hope you enjoy riding! |
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Thank you so much! That sounds like good advice! |
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