Canter Balance

Eventing101 · Well Schooled

Canter Balance

Barbara F · Grand Prix

Is your horse perfectly sound and ready to train at the canter? What types of things do you have to do at the championships?

Forward and back within the gait, as well as circles and serpentines are very helpful. Also, going up and down hill is great for helping any horse with balance. The only thing is that I hate to recommend stuff when I don't know what you are currently doing with you horse. Also, is your coach able to help you from her end?

Eventing101 · Well Schooled

thanks for replying and yes my coach is helping me with this but i just wanted extra info so we are going entry so just 20m circles and up/down transitions. just basic stuff. thanks so much!

Figarocubed · Advanced

What advice does your vet have?

Your horse is only five. Might he still be growing, developing, and somewhat weak? Does he respond to half-halts by "sitting" on his butt or does he dump down on the forehand?

The answer to that may tell you volumes...

jc · Foal

In your 2 choices mentioned above...what do those volumes say? My horse dumps down on the forehand...what should I know from that? Thanks.

Geoffrey Pannell · Well Schooled

I wouldn't be riding ANY 20 metre circles at all. With the show only a month away and you horse still recovering from a stifle lock, I would re-think any thoughts of winning anything, maybe even going might be to much?

Figarocubed · Advanced

I don't know, jc -- In E101's case, if the horse can't transition without sprawling, either the horse is unbalanced (green) or the rider is not helping the horse balance or a little of both. First thing, the rider has to know how to apply a half halt and/or ask for transitions with the horse engaging its back end to the best of its ability and level of training. Some riders "drop" their horses in down transitions, resulting in "dumping on the forehand". A good transition means the rider rides the horse rear to front into the transition, keeping the forehand up and the rear engaged. It's a balancing act and easy to screw up. In E101's case, a horse with a locking stifle WILL have trouble engaging behind -- which tells her something. Like, take it easy and don't push him till he's completely over it. That's where a vet's input is essential.

So what do YOU do that causes or allows your horse to dump down on the forehand?

Geoffrey's right, Eventing 101, bag the competition till your horse is fully recovered. You may jeopardize his future soundness and health.