How to improve canter?

[spider]

We can do the upward and downward transistions quite nicely now, always get correct leg, but the bit inbetween starting and stopping is a bit rubbish! Have been working on keeping going and not stopping until asked, but now need to concentrate on rhythm and shape. Any excercises or suggestions. Most of the problem is me I think. I've stopped drawing up my legs, but can't really get the idea what I'm supposed to do with my hips. (He has a decent walk and trot and can work in a consistent outline in these paces, but is quite lazy.)

 

[lifeslemons]

The basic answer... get some training (if you don't already.) I've benefitted a lot from lunge lessons, and they might be useful for you if, as you say, you are struggling with your position. As a quick tip r.e your hips, try to think of a straight line down from the back of your head, shoulders, hip and ankle. I have had many lessons with a schooling whip across my back to ensure I keep it straight.

Your struggling not to keep your leg down may be because, as you say, he is lazy. Therefore, perhaps a pair of spurs may help? Again though, consult someone who has seen the pair of you before doing this, in case it upsets him, particularly if you are finding him strong in the transitions.

However, the best advice I've been given so far to improve my horses' canter is to concentrate on the walk. The walk and canter are the most similar gaits in terms of footfalls, and, bascially, you won't get a decent canter until the walk is going well. This is why instructors often make people spend hours on end in the walk. Also, the walk is the best pace in which to correct problems such as straightness, which obviously will in turn improve the canter.

Good luck!

 

[spider]

Thanks Lifeslemons - didn't know that about walk and canter. Do have lessons but only in a group. Would really like some private lessons but my instuctor is not working for the next couple of weeks. maybe I ought to have a lesson on another horse with a more established canter.