How to achieve medium canter strides?

[kyraharvey]

What's the best way to achieve medium canter strides?
I can do medium trot and what a difference that feels to working trot - it's so obvious when he's doing it but cantering really isn't my strongest point and for as much as I sit a lot better to canter than I used to I still can't feel whether he's working properly from behind - I guess it's about longer strides rather than going faster. I do alternate taps either side for the medium trot but what are the aids for medium canter?

[Stella2]

can't offer advice I'm afraid, but I look forward to the other replies because I'd like to know too :)

[Tootsie4U]

Whats the differnece between medium and collected?

[Stella2]

collected is a shorter stride than working, medium is a longer stride than working.

[Calsanjo]

Lengthening the stride in any pace is all about letting the horse lengthen its frame. In the medium or extended trot, for example, you should not really have to apply much, if any, leg when you ask for the extension. If your horse is already working properly from behind, you allowing with your rein (gradually) and seat should be enough to lengthen the stride.

The same principle applies in the canter. You should not "pull back" into collection but ask the horse to step under from behind whilst gently shortening the frame in front. I would in fact use more leg in a collection than an extension to prevent any loss of impulsion. The canter then feels more "uphill" and bouncy rather than short and choppy. As you ask to lengthen simply ride forward into the contact as normal, but change where that contact is met by allowing. If your horse is engaging its hindquarters and using its hocks, it will then lengthen its stride.

Hope some of that makes sense/helps.

I have attached a pic of me practising lengthened strides. Please note this has been exaggerated as I've literally "dropped" the reins and asked him to carry himself. Also as you can probably tell, we're jumpers, not dressage bods, but the same principle applies!

[kyraharvey]

Thanks Calsanjo, I think it makes sense - are you saying to not necessarily have less contact but a softer contact to allow the horse to stretch more or am I barking up the wrong tree completely? Nice pic by the way :)

[Calsanjo]

Not less contact or even a softer contact really. You "allow" forwards with your hands and the horse should go with you, therefore the contact should feel the same. Remember the horse seeks the contact, not the rider!