
Training
Horse that just runs off in canter
A horse I ride just runs in the canter. When I try to get a calm, round canter she just breaks back to trot. And she's very sensitive in the mouth. I don't know what to do?
Answers from HayHay's experts
"Running" usually comes down to either balance difficulties or the horse not understanding its job and becoming a little stressed or frightened as a result. I would focus on plenty of transitions where the horse takes only a stride or two of canter after the strike-off, then comes back again. Ask for the strike-off over a pole to teach the horse the transition, then work on the canter from the ground through lungeing 😊 Long reining, plus hacking out over rough and varied terrain, will help build strength too. With more strength she will also have the power to balance herself better. Good luck!

Elise Lindman
Sports Psychologist

