position for fast canter on a gallop

[EJ87]

Need some advice iv only really ever ridden my mare in an arena or enclosed area but me and my friend and her horse went to try a new gallop yesterday. she cantered her horse in front and i followed like we would in an arena. my problem is i found it really fast and found myself unable to sit in the saddle and was sittin more in a jumping position leaning forward and slightly out of saddle. just wondered if this was ok and it was a fast canter not a working canter? or is it my inexperience thats causing it?

 

[tase1965]

What you did was right, weight out of the saddle and slightly forward - like you found cantering out on a gallop or cross country dosent work with an arena dressage seat - bet you loved it!

 

[Tizzy]

Everybody is different. Some people find it easier to sit and others prefer to get up out the saddle.

In a slow canter i find it easier to sit, but when we pick up speed its far easier, more comfortable and better on my horses back to get up out the saddle.

Its each to their own.

 

[TrasaM]

Can't offer advice but also interested in the answer to this one. When I've gone for treks I've usually got my bum out of the saddle but that's because the cobs I've ridden generally have a very clunky canter. So its rise or have my teeth shaken loose On horses with smooth canters I can sit quite well even at faster speeds. Like you I feel more balanced with my bum off the saddle though.