Canter confidence

[lucyrebecca94]

As the title suggests really, need some tips to help me canter.

I've had my mare for 2 years and never cantered her as old owner said she drops her shoulder. So I've only ever walked and trotted her everywhere not that she complains. But I went for a hack today with a friend and she cantered off to jump a log and my mare just cantered off following them, as much as I was petrified at the time I've had the biggest grin on my face all day cause I loved it even if it did take me by surprise.

But how do I over come that niggling feeling that will always be there if I know she is likely to drop her shoulder?

 

[soulfull]

I would repeat what you did today a good few times. Perhaps at different spots on your hack

 

[Gloi]

Canter her behind your friend for a while until you get your confidence up. If she isn't wanting to go in a direction other than follow the other horse she is unlikely to drop her shoulder in those circumstances.