Here's a confession; for years I used to think of cantering while on the lunge as just something I did to 'finish the session'. It was like something that I could check off a list. There was no intention behind it (only to get it done),

And with any cantering happening while on the lunge, there was definitely no thought put into using the time or gait to develop the horse.

Which, now, seems so bizarre! Why would I have even bothered with it when there was no set focus or intention?! It really does seem like madness; except for one thing…

Every week, I see so many riders making the same mistake. Cantering endless circles while on the lunge – without a single thought about why and what it might achieve or work towards…

Transitioning Into the Canter

Let's start at the beginning with this one. I love thinking about the similarities between what happens when riding and what happens when lunging. Meaning, if you were to ride a 'good' transition from trot to canter, what would you consider before 'asking'?

The transition into canter will only be as good as the quality of the trot asking for it – and the quality of the preparations for the 'ask'.

Meaning that the trot must be moving forwards, not running. And the rider (the lunger) must invest a little time, energy, and focus in preparation for the transition itself.

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