MizElz
Well-Known Member
Ellie and I havent done anything over the winter other than hack; I've had nowhere to school her, and no money for lessons, so had to be content with asking her to stretch and do some lateral movements when out on the quiet lanes. Today, thanks to a week or so of sunshine, I was able to school her in the field for the first time, and......wow! We've had real problems with our canter; my attempts to collect her result in a very choppy, hollow and what I call a 'showjumping canter' - fine for jumping, but we no longer jump! All last year my instructor was telling me that I should concentrate less on collection and bend, and instead sit up, back and get Ellie really going forward and using herself - the bend will come in time. I didnt believe her, and at the time felt hopelessly out of control when I let Ellie go forward to the extent that our instructor was asking. But today, for the first time ever, I felt the difference....I sat back, pushing her forwards and through, and all of a sudden she started taking the bit and really using herself. Success! I was careful not to ask too much, but at last, I think we may be getting somewhere.
Must save up for some lessons now!
Must save up for some lessons now!