Canter preparation - how do you prepare for canter when riding?
The first preparation happens back in the walk and trot. If the horse feels balanced there, that is a good start. If the walk-to-trot transitions feel difficult and unbalanced, the canter strike-off will probably feel difficult too.
You want a feeling that the horse is willing to go forward but can also wait, that the horse feels ready.
It is easy for the rider to rush the strike-off and let the tempo build too much, which often results in a rushing trot or an unbalanced, scrambled strike-off.
Before the canter strike-off:
- Find a good tempo where the horse is with you but can also wait
- If you are striking off from trot, sit down in the saddle. Find your own balance and seat
- Just before the strike-off, bring your inside hip forward slightly. To ask for the strike-off itself, take the outside leg back a few centimetres (or bring the inside leg forward, it can vary depending on how the horse has learned it)
- Try to sit still through the strike-off and wait for the canter. Think "wait", and then canter
It is easy as a rider to throw yourself forward (getting eager), which then pushes your body backwards and makes it hard work for the horse. If you struggle with your seat or balance, hold the saddle or a neck strap so you do not balance on the reins.
The key is getting the timing of the aids right and making sure the horse feels ready for the canter. Good luck ⭐️
