What tips do you have for sitting in the saddle while cantering?

Question

I go riding but i cant seem to sit to a canter my instructor is always telling off. then puts me on the lunge. How can i avoid the lunge and sit in canter! please help!

Answer 1

Number one, keep your heels down and deep. The longer your leg, the longer you ride. Stirrups should hit the bottom of your ankle bone, English, a  little longer Western. You want two inches between your pants and your saddle. Exhale, and don't forget to breathe. Try an old quiet, comfortable horse to start off on. Something smaller to fit your size. Look ahead, chin parallel with the ground, shoulders back, slight arch above the waist. Stretch up. Full seat collected canter is the same posture (upper body angle) as the walk and sitting trot. Light seat or half seat is the same as the posting trot--15 degrees in front of verical. But remember to keep your heels down, flex your ankles inward, toes no more than 15 degrees out from parallel with your horse.

Answer 2

you should just try to go with the canter ... dont be afraid of it ... and if the horse is going too fast then you should try to ride a slower horse ... but basically kinda rock with the horse and i suggest trying to do it in english saddle if your not already ... and if theres a round pen then go into that if your not comfortable cantering on the lounge line ... i know its kinda scary when your on the lounge line because you have to really lean into it and you feel you can go off at anytime ... but once you have mastered english saddle you can ride anything ... and it helps your balance alot ... but try to stay with the horse and dont hold back ... i hope this helps =)  --livY