Canter on a loose rein, both directions, no steering. Leads are not necessary at this time, just a canter. As with other steps, do them all in one direction and make sure it is good before going to the other side.
Canter on Loose Rein
Success Tips:
- Forward needs to be good at other gaits.
- Work on getting a bigger trot, then smaller trot, making each successive trot bigger until they roll into a canter.
- Reward each try: They don’t have to keep cantering, they just have to reach the canter. Allow them to come back to the trot and trot a little way between each ask.
- Do this step and previous steps all in one direction and make sure it is good before going to the other side.
Common Problems/Mistakes:
- Not going with the horse: You have to be prepared to ride whatever canter they give you. You can’t be trying to slow them with your seat (even unknowingly by tightening up because the canter is a bit quick for you) or trying to speed them up with your seat.
- Trying to get a canter if they are not ready for it.
- Horse won’t canter: Ask for bigger trot then an even bigger trot, usually horse will canter.