Does anyone have any tips for cantering on trails?
With my old mare, going out on hacks was the most calming experience. She never bucked or took off with me. se also always slowed down as soon as she saw people. I was just a passenger but in the best way possible.
My 5-year-old, back then 4, also never had any problems. She was always brave and never even dared to buck as long as I was on her back. She was always manageable at any speed.
Just over half a year ago, I bought a 6-year-old. Hes the most precious and kind horse I have had the pleasure to own, but once we're on the trails, I struggle to hold him, even at a trot. In the arena, he doesn't buck or do anything unpleasant, unless he is in pain. On the trail, however, he launches himself forward and starts bucking as soon as I ask him to canter. I'm sure that this could just be some sort of joyous expression, but my seat isn't good enough to sit his huge bucks (I'm used to ponies 15.1/15.2hh horses and he is 17hh). DOes anyone have any tips on how I can slowly introduce cantering out on the trails without getting thrown off?