Would you...

[Janah]

Would you ride and lead in canter?

As some of you may know from previous posts I ride my boy and lead his Dartmoor companion. Both are a little prone to up the revs in trot. Much better lately and Dartmoor is realising she must stay back by my leg. She has apparently hunted on a lead rein in the past.

A friend has said I would be daft to attempt canter. Like red rag to a bull, I feel I just have to give it a go.

Obviously I would do it in a safe place. Thought I might try it in an arena to start. When we go on bridle paths they do both get a bit lit up but I think if I got them used to cantering they would take it in their stride so to speak.

Do any of you ride and lead in canter? Can't really see a problem with it if proper care taken.

Jane

 

[Box_Of_Frogs]

Depends. But you could very easily end up with a dislocated shoulder or a loose horse.

 

[marmalade76]

I wouldn't do it but most of the horses I've had have been strong and forward going and would just see it as a race.

 

[flowerlady]

In a word No. You could hurt yourself and if you drop the lead rope the loose horse could stand on it and jar his head and neck. But more importantly you could put other people at risk if you lose the lead pony or even control of the ridden one.

 

[piebaldsparkle]

I would/have cantered when riding & leading. Wouldn't do it in the average sand school though as too small.

 

[Stateside]

I used to ride & lead at canter and even jumped a hedge with my two, if it feels right at that moment do it. When leading a strong horse or one that held back I would have a loose srirup leather round the neck of the one I was riding ( a neck strap) and pass the lead rope through the stirup leather that way the lead horse pulls against the horse you are riding and not you. if you can understand what I mean.. and they were very fit horses.