Jumping
Intermediate
25 min
Gallop Position and Pace Control at the Canter
Focus: Fitness, Balance, Speed Control
Equipment: 4 cones or markers
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large arena or field, establish a canter. Rise into gallop position (short stirrups, upper body forward, weight in heels).
- Gallop for a set distance (between two cones), then collect to a working canter.
- The transition from gallop to working canter should be smooth: close your hip angle, sit deeper, half-halt.
- Practice opening and closing the gallop 3-4 times down the long side.
- This simulates the pace control needed on cross-country courses.
- Always maintain control. A controlled gallop is a gear you choose, not a speed you can't stop.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Letting the gallop get away from you — always be able to stop within 6 strides.
- Pulling on the horse's mouth to slow down instead of using your body.
- Rising too far out of the saddle, losing lower leg contact.
- Not practicing the collect-back portion enough — it's the harder skill.
Variations & Progressions
- Set up cones at specific points for gallop-to-canter transitions.
- Practice galloping to a single fence for cross-country simulation.
- Time yourself between two points at gallop and working canter to feel the speed difference.
Tip: A good gallop feels fast but controlled. If you can't collect at any moment, you're going too fast.
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