Learning canter

[mar2505]

Help, I have finally plucked up courage to learn to canter but am finding it impossible to get.
I followed somebody out on a hack, they cantered my mare just did a faster trot. Then i went in a field same thing happened until we turned for home and I asked again and he had a bronco moment (think i was holding him too tight on reins) and i fell off.
Now when I finally get my courage it all seems to go wrong. I have also tried it on lunge but he just goes faster and faster.

Instructor can canter him no problem, typical!

 

[LauraBR]

Perhaps it would be worth having lessons on an 'easier' horse to get you into the swing of it, more relaxed and confident?

 

[mar2505]

I went to a rding school and tried one there which was ok but my instructor says that because I have spent 3 years telling my horse not to canter he cannot believe that I am asking hence the fast trot.

 

[jumpthemoon]

Next time you ask keep hold of your outside rein so that he doesnt go faster - you need to communicate that you aren't asking for more speed, but a change of pace. If you keep practising you will get it in the end

 

[mar2505]

Not sure whether to practise on lunge or stright in a field. Which do you think is the best plan. He is good on lunge but I am not confident enough to let go of reins.

 

[Baggybreeches]

My mare is really lazy and my nervous friend hacks out with me, she cant get her to canter at all in the school but is fine on a hack along field margins or the like. Dont try too hard as you will get into a negative spiral. It will happen when the time is right

 

[mar2505]

Thanks, must admit i really beat myself up about it last night cause it has taken me so long to get this courage.