scout4361
19th Aug 2003, 12:23 AM
The new place where I take lessons is fantastic. My last lesson was private and I wanted to gain a secure seat in canter.
What I found was that finding a deep seat in sitting trot without stirrups was essential. Once I semi-mastered that with my body position and legs etc..., I went on to canter immediately and basically used the same position and hip motion, although to a 3 time beat. I couldn't believe it...... NO BOUNCE!!!!
I am 37 years old and just began riding a year ago, and I too was TERRIFIED of canter!!!! However, when I switched barns and was given this wonderful schoolhorse whom I totally trust, I was able to forget my fears and concentrate on riding. So my advice to you would be to find that mount that you can really trust, usually an older schoolmaster. That way you don't have to worry about them bolting, bucking etc. Trust me, once you've cantered a few times, you won't believe you were ever scared. Its really fun!! However, I think you need somewhat of a secure seat to really feel secure with any horse. Maybe you are just trying it a little too soon.
Sorry, started a new thread when I meant to respond to one. OOPS!!!
Anyway hope some of this helps you. Canter was a major dilemma for me, but sometimes finding the right horse to teach you, is just the trick!!! Don't worry though, you'll get there!!!!
I did and I honestly never ever thought I would.
What I found was that finding a deep seat in sitting trot without stirrups was essential. Once I semi-mastered that with my body position and legs etc..., I went on to canter immediately and basically used the same position and hip motion, although to a 3 time beat. I couldn't believe it...... NO BOUNCE!!!!
I am 37 years old and just began riding a year ago, and I too was TERRIFIED of canter!!!! However, when I switched barns and was given this wonderful schoolhorse whom I totally trust, I was able to forget my fears and concentrate on riding. So my advice to you would be to find that mount that you can really trust, usually an older schoolmaster. That way you don't have to worry about them bolting, bucking etc. Trust me, once you've cantered a few times, you won't believe you were ever scared. Its really fun!! However, I think you need somewhat of a secure seat to really feel secure with any horse. Maybe you are just trying it a little too soon.
Sorry, started a new thread when I meant to respond to one. OOPS!!!
Anyway hope some of this helps you. Canter was a major dilemma for me, but sometimes finding the right horse to teach you, is just the trick!!! Don't worry though, you'll get there!!!!
I did and I honestly never ever thought I would.