Fun with counter canter

Our first Second Level test.

I know some paths/programs/theories don't particularly like using counter canter in schooling (Stephen Peters is one), but I have always found it to be super helpful for a horse like Hampton who needs to loosen up his back behind the saddle and oscillate his hips.

A couple of these exercises were passed down to my instructor by Anne Gribbons and I have found them challenging for both myself as far as being precise and aware of the haunches, and a great way to get Hampton's lower back loosened up.

Second Level at the KHP!

Goals:

Straightness with NO swinging haunches. The counter canter should be the same as the true canter. Same balance and quality. Is your horse even in both reins?

Watch for:

Careful not to flex the horse's neck too far in the direction of the leading leg. A lot of people do this in an effort to keep the horse from swapping leads I believe. But all it does is destroy the straightness and throw the horse to the outside. Which he may still swap leads.

If your horse does swap leads, just calmly stop and restart. Not a problem.

You can start with 3 loops - which appears in second level

. (or First level has the one-looper)

Difficulty: Requires some collection but quite attainable.

Next up is the 4 loops serpentine.

Level of collection is more challenging here.

Add-on options:

Counter bend in the counter canter.

Simple change or Flying change so you remain on counter canter in all loops.

Add a halt on center line.

Difficulty: Ranging from challenging to oh shit that is hard.

And if you really want to test yourself, try 6 loops.

You are basically making half 10 meter circles down the centerline.

Add-on options:

Counter bend in counter canter (make sure haunches don't swing out)

Increase collection

Simple change in the middles, so you only do counter canter and never have a loop of true canter.

Flying changes to counter canter (at the Xs)

Can you counter bend in the counter canter? 

(Hampton threw in a few flying changes at first because duh that is easier)

This is excellent for making your changes precise, and keeps horse's attention because you turn the "wrong" way after the change.

Difficulty: Ranges from challenging to FML.

There's a bazillion ways to change these up to fit your horse's needs and current strength levels as well. Are your simple changes a little rough? Try a few steps of leg yield within the down transition. These are really good for the rider as well as it requires you are clear with your aids.

And remember to do a refresh with a forward canter down the long side!

Ya or nay on these types of posts?