Cantering the newly backed horse....

[almrc]

Is it 'usual' for a newly (or recently) backed horse to feel slightly 'odd' in canter? Ie: with their balance etc, just feeling not quite right with the feeling of possibly bucking but not and very slight head shaking, but no signs of this in walk or trot? Is it just being inexperienced of cantering with a rider on board? Teeth/back/saddle/bridle...checked.

 

[rhino]

Yes, they quite often find it difficult to gain their balance in canter. I would work on cantering on straight lines whilst hacking if possible; the constant turning in a school never really gives them the chance to relax into a rhythm. Keep a slightly forward seat too

 

[Goldenstar]

yes it's normal just keep quietly at it and when you can cantering up hill out hacking with a sensible horse friend helps a lot.

 

[Echo Bravo]

As above, they do have to find their balance, with a weight on top. And I wouldn't be cantering him for awhile if he's newly backed, as he has to get use to carrying weight at walk and trot.

 

[depurple1]

Mine didn't do any proper canter work until he was 4 - he was backed young in Spain so didn't want to push him. When he first started it was like wall of death! After a few weeks he started to work out where his legs should go, and now has a comfortable, balanced canter.

 

[vicksey]

Mine just bounced on the spot and couldn't get going. Hacked a lot and cantered in open spaces which seemed to help with balance etc.

 

[almrc]

Thank you all for your help it is very reassuring! She is and a half now and was backed a few months ago now, just been bringing her on slowly and gradually since then. Thank you for your help