Working on Canter - Before and After Vid and CC Please!

[_April_]

Evening all,

Just got back from a very good flatwork lesson and managed to get some bits of it videoed.

I have been trying really hard to work on my position over the past year and I *think* it's getting better.
When I started riding again after my 2 year break I was leaning so far forward and position was terrible, think it was due to nerves and not being able to relax into my seat. I was feeling really bad about my riding and felt like a sack of spuds but I think I am finally making a little bit of progress.

Tonight we were working on my hands as I am now tending to hold her out rather then using my legs effectively.
April is also quite lazy so it can be a bit of work to get her up and off her forehand but she went really nicely tonight and got some lovely trot work. It just gets a bit shaky when we go up a gear lol.
Although it still looks quite crap it is actually getting better

Wanted to show a before and after video and also any tips etc are always appreciated.
I am really wanting to keep improving as much as I can

Tonight's Lesson

and the before - (there's a good 4 inches of daylight between my bum and the saddle

)
Short Canter clip from Mar 07 :

 

[OrangeEmpire]

You're right, you've change alot! Well Done!! Huge difference in your position and seat!

Only comment is that yes, you're holding yourself in position by using the reins as an anchor. she will lighten in the forehand when she hasn't got the weight of your hands on her mouth to lean on to. Test yourself by giving with the reins for a few strides at a time. You'll find it hard to begin with but as you get more confident you'll find that you're pushing her into the contact with your seat and legs. But you've obviously worked really hard to change so much so far, so I'm sure this will come with time!
Well done!

 

[_April_]

Thanks! yes I still have loads to work on but will keep getting myself on as many lessons as I can.
Even have another lesson tonight (not on poor April though lol).
Videos are great for seeing changes, I felt I was just the same but then when I looked I felt much better

I will definitely try your tip out for improving my hands. xx


ETS - I'm glad someone replied LOL. 163 people have viewed. Don't be shy folks - I won't bite

 

[AnnaandStella]

Congrats, also! Big improvement. I love that "breakthrough" type moment.

Just one thing - (i only know this because it's exactly what i do) - you look as if you're leaning back to absorb the movement and your hands are held in position. Instead of leaning back, try and loosen the tension in your body and slide into the saddle and let your hands follow the movement of the head more. You'll start to do this naturally in a couple more months!

Big, big improvement though, you've gone from a learner to a rider fast!