Q&A for How to Canter on a Horse for the First Time

If you don't feel ready and secure on the horse, you shouldn't canter. Tell your instructor about this and they should be understanding.

Think about something else and focus on that. A horse can tell if you're afraid and they're looking to you for guidance. Be sure of yourself and your horse will be too.

Just as everybody says, "Keep your heels down." It takes a lot of consistent riding and practice to exercise your muscles to keep your feet in the stirrups. Try riding in a canter more often. You can also just bring your stirrups up a notch.

When cantering, your body will move in a motion that involves loosening up at the hips and rocking forward with the horse. You won't post like with trotting, but there will be movement involved.

It all depends on how well your riding, horse, and confidence are. I would talk to your trainer (if you have one) or ask an experienced equestrian who has seen you ride.

You can always go into half seat, which feels like posting at the canter. However, make sure you don't actually post, as it will confuse your horse and make him trot again.

Before you canter, make sure you have good balance. It would be good to teach your horse collection. This is where with a mixture of reins and leg, you "tuck" your horse's head. The higher her head is the faster she will go. You begin by gently bumping her nose with the reins and bumping with your heels to keep her going. And don't be afraid. Horses know if you're uneasy and they will pick up with it.

Learn to develop your seat at the canter. It takes time in the saddle. Go with your horse's motion. If you nearly fall off, it's okay. Again, it's all about developing your seat and balance.

Develop your seat and go with your horse's motion. It may be best to find an instructor to help you.

Rely on your legs. Keep your body in place, and make sure to not think about jumping in your seat. If you think about it more, you'll bounce more.

Relax, breathe slowly. Trust your horse. I was scared my first time too, but once you get used to it, it won't be scary. Think about how much you love horses and keep telling yourself that you've got this, that you are happily balanced on your horse.

It's normal to be afraid for your first time catering. It’s life changing and you just need to trust your horse and work day and night.

Just try your best! Show the wonders that your not a horseback rider but that your an equestrian! Don’t expect to be perfect after a few years of not riding. Get an instructor, if needed.

Your legs and calves, when squeezed, help to stabilize you on the saddle. But do not squeeze your butt because the muscle in your but when you flex it will bounce on the leather of the saddle.

Tell your instructor that you feel you are ready. Accept and learn why they don’t think you are ready. Remember that you are paying them for lessons.