Training Give and retake the reins


In tests this might be asked for with just one rein or both at the same time, and in canter it is first introduced at novice level. The judge is looking to see that the horse can remain in a good self- carriage (correct balance and outline) without relying on the rider’s hands.


Whether you are giving away just the inside rein or both together, give your hands towards the horse’s mouth.


The aim is to put a loop in the rein/s to clearly show the judge that you are not ‘holding’ your horse into an outline. When teaching your horse the concept, do so on a circle. Wait for a moment when he feels in good balance and in a light contact then give away the inside rein for a second or two, before taking it back. Do the same with the outside rein and then, if all is going well, attempt giving away both together.


Giving and retaking the reins with both hands Counter-canter on a straight line


In counter-canter the horse canters on the outside lead with a small amount of outside bend. Before starting counter-canter, the horse should be able to show true canter in self carriage, not leaning on the rider’s hands or falling onto the shoulders. The horse needs to be able to bring his hind leg underneath his body and balance himself.


Elder rides a teardrop shape in canter...


“The counter-canter needs to be a nice three beat canter on the outside lead,” says Elder. “It helps with suppling the horse’s back and neck and engaging the hind end. It also helps to collect the canter and lift the forehand.


“The first exercise I normally use when teaching counter-


canter is a tear drop/half 10m circle and back to the track on one of the long sides, doing a little bit of counter-canter before the corner and then trotting.


“The other exercise I do is to canter on the long side and then change leg through trot or walk and repeat a few times to make sure the horse is listening to my aids and staying in balance. The rider must maintain a correct position in counter- canter, turning their body a little to the outside to help the horse with his balance. Don’t do too much counter canter – do small bits and then some medium canter or trot work to make sure you still have impulsion and throughness.”


...to teach her horses the beginnings of counter-canter


Counter canter on the long side


Thanks to…Baileys Horse Feeds for setting up this photoshoot. Elder’s horse Dior is fed Baileys No 21 Ease and Excel to keep him in optimum health and condition.


NEXT MONTH, ELDER TALKS US THROUGH COMMON DRESSAGE TEST ISSUES AND HOW TO RESOLVE THEM.


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