Problems with my canter!

[lizzylulu]

Had another lesson today. Did lots of things to help with my balance. Then did some cantering. However, I am having a few problems! I can feel that when I am cantering and using my legs that my legs are just flinging backwards and forwards. Also I lean too much when I get to corners or on a 20m circle. Anyone got any advice?

Thanks guys x

 

[bex1984]

Not much help I'm afraid but you'll get there - when I took riding up again two years ago i was struggling with canter and someone said to me that one day it would just "click" and I'd find my seat and to just keep trying, and eventually things improved. Just make sure you relax.

 

[Stella]

Your instructor should be advising you on these things. If she/he is not, you might want to consider trying a different one!

It sounds like you don't have the weight down into your lower legs enough. That is where the strength (or lack of it) in your seat is! Forget about your bottom, get your lower leg right and your bottom will take care of itself! I'd suggest doing lots of work in a half seat, stationary initially to establish your balance correctly, then in walk, then trot. If you do that it will become more natural for the weight to remain in your lower leg and you should be much more secure in all gaits, including canter