Tense canter, help please

[malibu211211]

Still having problems with canter but now it's me instead of me and Monty

On the right rein I tense up, it all falls apart and I can't keep Monty going

It doesn't help that the right rein is his worst rein so I think I unbalance him

Have been doing sitting trot for a full 20m circle before asking for canter because before when I would sit for just a few strides I was tensing up and not able to get him into canter. This way at least we get canter

Any suggestions please?

 

[hadfos]

Would you not feel more relaxed asking for right lead canter off a figure of eight with a pole on the ground??
Or have you not got somebody that could lunge you so you can practise with a neck strap and no stirrups,learning to lenghten and relax your seat and legs??

 

[Parkranger]

I had this problem for ages - I found myself tensing all over and chucking the reins at him...as I was going for a gallop on a hack!

Try putting both reins in your outside hand and letting one arm drop to the side (if monty is not liable to bugger off!) and it will help you keep your shoulders loose.

No stirrup work before hand should help too - remember to keep your knees well away and not tense through your top leg....

 

[kirstyhen]

Have no idea if this would work, but it helps my horses canter, so might help you!
Have you tried standing in your stirrups, sink your weight through your lower legs, but keep your whole body soft and relaxed, let your horse bowl on and get into a rhythm, obviously not fast but don't worry about collection. Then think about keeping everything the same but slower sit up and back into the saddle.
I do it whilst warming up, it really helps is both settle and relax into cantering!
Sorry if its no help at all!!!

 

[darksecret99]

Try counting strides outloud in canter, or singing to help you relax and breath.

Also, try giving him a pat on the neck with you inside hand every now and again to make sure your hands arent frozen to the spot and help both of you relax.

Or a parelli tip, put both reins in one hand and do a thumbs up with the free hand, then put your thumb on your saddle behind your back and try to stay sitting on it by softening your lower back! Sounds bizarre, but I found it helped me sit much deeper in canter - and after you've done it a couple of times, you will be able to just imagine having your thumb there and correct yourself if you find you are bouncing!!

Good luck!