Last week and this I’ve been learning to canter Jack the Horse. It’s a whole new ballgame, and one that I’m, so far, only just touching the edges of.
The “canter switch” on Jack is to put pressure on his right flank while making a kissing sound (I’m not making this up). Canter is a different gait, and a faster speed, and it is, at this point, frankly, somewhat terrifying a prospect; the terror is leading me to pull back on the reigns and give mixed signals to Jack, so I’ve yet to achieve a full cantery orbit. But I’ve tasted it, and as much as it’s terrifying, it’s also deeply thrilling.
L., who’s been coming for riding lessons with me this month, generously took a video of one of the “almosts.”
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Comments
Is it me? I only get audio...
Is it me? I only get audio...
Not from lessons but just
Not from lessons but just from one particular horseback tour, I know exactly that terror/thrill mixed-messaging situation. I’m excited for you and a little envious that you’ll be learning your way past that.
Video doesn’t work on my iPad
Video doesn’t work on my iPad for some reason.
I think you'll prefer the
I think you'll prefer the canter over the very bumpy almost stage - the rythm of the canter sucks you into the saddle and it feels much more stable. 😊
Way to go Peter! It DOES look
Way to go Peter! It DOES look equal parts exciting and terrifying! But looks super fun too.
Wait until you get outside,
Wait until you get outside, and have the confidence to ride at a full-out gallop. That's a great feeling . . . and it's surprisingly easy because your horse is going so fast, your body just joins in the rhythm.
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