canter issue

[azouria]

Hey there, i'm new on here so I thought that I should probably introduce myself and the welsh sec B pony I share, Red.

I've only been riding him for a few months so far, and he's been perfect, we just have a slight problem getting canter on the right rein (clockwise). He' on various homoeopathic treatments because he has issues with his left hind but recently it's been getting quite stiff which means that he has trouble picking up the right lead or we get a very fast trot. Any ideas/suggestions for exercises I could do to help him?

 

[hannah87]

What is his canter like on the lunge?
Have you tried asking him for canter over a pole?
Can he do walk to canter? This may help with the rushing. There are various things you could try, but if you havnt already pop him on the lunge and see if he can do it by himself first.
Alternatively if he has issues with his left hind could he still be in pain and therefore reluctant to use himself?

 

[azouria]

I haven't actually seen him on the lunge, but as far as I know he's better without the weight on his back. The problem seems to be that the he's not in pain as such, but he finds it hard to put all his (and my) weight on that leg to strike off on the correct lead in canter. He also has confidence issues with that leg - he has times when he thinks that he can't do it so he panics a bit and runs on (which then tends to frustrate me and make me more tense) so then the transitions get worse. However after the first couple of canters on that rein he warms up and then there's no problem.

I'll try the poles though - I was talking to a friend earlier who said it might be worth trying canter poles in the corner of the school to help with the transition.

 

[suzysparkle]

Hiya and welcome!

Most Horses are one sided - determined by the way they develop in the womb.

Have you had him looked at by a physio / chiro / bowen therapist? Without question that's what I would do. Your vet should be able to recommend one to you locally - or ask on here! They will do various things (ie trot up, turn in tight circles and have a good 'feel') to see if there's a physical issue. Whilst I rate homeopathy - I feel for these issues you do also need a physio etc. Also you need to consider your own posture. I don't say this in a bad way - most people check horses backs but not their own! If we are 'out' our Horses must compensate!

As for exercises - there are many! Leg yielding then into canter. Turn on the forehand / about the forehand at X then ride to the corresponding corner and ask for canter. Spiralling circles in and out the way. Transitions. Poles raised at alternate ends.

That and make sure your saddle, bridle and bit all fit correctly.

From what you've said - I'd definately suggest the physio etc first. They will also give you in hand stretches to do.