Jumping
Intermediate
20 min
Counter-Canter for Jumpers
Focus: Balance, Straightness, Lead Control
Equipment: 4 cones or markers
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Establish a balanced canter on the correct lead on a 20-meter circle.
- Change direction through the center of the arena without changing leads.
- Now you're in counter-canter on the new circle. Maintain the lead for 1-2 full circles.
- The horse should stay balanced and rhythmic in counter-canter.
- This develops the horse's ability to hold a lead when asked — essential for inside turns and related distances.
- Return to true canter via a simple change and practice on the other lead.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- The horse swapping leads automatically because it hasn't been taught to hold the counter-canter.
- Over-bending toward the lead, destabilizing the balance.
- The canter becoming four-beat from tension.
- The rider gripping and creating tension that causes the lead swap.
Variations & Progressions
- Ride counter-canter on a straight line (long side) before attempting circles.
- Counter-canter through a turn to a single fence for jump-off preparation.
- Chain true canter and counter-canter loops for advanced balance.
Tip: Counter-canter teaches the horse to wait for your aid before changing leads. This is critical for jump-off strategy.
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