Cantering is an exciting gait to learn no doubt about it. It's something new, something fun. However, there are certain steps, safety precautions, and tips that you should use. Read the following and you'll be cantering away in no time!
Step 1
First of all, as you all know, you absolutely ALWAYS wear a safe riding helmet. It is always a risk that you will fall off the horse, no matter how safe you think you are. It is also a good idea to have an experienced horse rider teach you how to canter/gallop - especially if it is your first time riding in one of these gaits.
Step 2
Cantering and galloping are fast gaits, so it is very important that you stay calm and in control of the horse and know what you are doing. Learning to canter and gallop would be easier if you ride a safe, calm horse.
Step 3
Try getting a instructor to teach you to sit properly in the saddle while in canter or gallop.
Step 4
It may be helpful if you watch other riders go into a canter. Watch every detail they do-their posture, position on the horse, how their legs signal the horse to canter, etc. All of these things are very important because if the horse notices you are doing something you shouldn't be when riding, he won't canter.
Step 5
Remember: Always keep both legs on the horse's girth at all times. Putting pressure on the girth with the lower leg tells the horse everything is okay which makes it much easier to control the horse.
Step 6
Put more pressure on the girth with the foot that cues the correct lead. If the horse you are riding doesn't catch on with this signal, then give the horse a soft kick on the girth. This foot should be the outside foot.
Step 7
Let your body go with the motion of the horse. Since the horse pulls his head back and forth when cantering/galloping, you should move your arms forward and back in the movement of the horse. Your hips should go in with the horse's movement as well. Having the horse bounce you up and down isn't exactly the most comfortable ride, and will be more painful for the horse.
Step 8
Sit straight while in this gait - if you are too far forward or too far back, you have a better chance of falling off.
Step 9
Practice makes perfect! Don't get frustrated if you don't understand cantering/galloping at once. It takes time to learn a new gait.
Step 10
Having the right lead is not only safer, it's also one of those things professional horsemen (like riding stable owners) notice about riders. You will find you can rent or borrow a much nicer horse if its owner knows you can ride well.
