Suggestions for stirrup-less schooling session

[FestiveFuzz]

Well we've come on leaps and bounds since I last posted about my nerves at riding my new boy. I've ridden him almost every day (only didn't ride when I was out of the country for work) and have been happily schooling him and even walked and trotted around the XC field alone last night (not much for some but a HUGE deal for me right now!).

On saturday I even had a little canter but quickly realised I desperately need to work on my seat (and breathing!) before doing any further canter work. My once secure seat now finds me tipping forward as I ask for the upward transition and at a guess I'd say I'm gripping with my knees when I do this, not ideal when H decides to pop in a cheeky buck! Frustratingly I know what I'm doing is wrong but my body just doesn't seem to want to co-operate

I've decided that I'm going to school without stirrups tonight in just walk and trot and see if I can start to get my secure seat back but I'm lacking inspiration as to what to do aside from halt/walk/trot transitions, circles etc.?

I've got a lesson booked for next monday so am hoping to address my canter issues then (is it weird I'm hoping for a lunge lesson without stirrups?!) but would like to start working on improving my seat now.

Freddo Faces (definitely my new fave chocolate!) in exchange for any suggestions

 

[Carrots&Mints]

Oooh I live lunge lessons with no stirrups and if your brave no reins!!!! I used to canter sound with my eyes shut and holding onto the saddle as I wasn't too brave and you'd find your natural balance without having to think about it! Let us know how you get on

 

[Tobiano]

Oooh I live lunge lessons with no stirrups and if your brave no reins!!!! I used to canter sound with my eyes shut and holding onto the saddle as I wasn't too brave and you'd find your natural balance without having to think about it! Let us know how you get on

I second this. Nothing better!