Follow my lead

Struggling to pick up the correct canter lead is a really common problem, but how do you solve it? Check out our top tips and you’ll conquer your canter transitions every time. 

What is it? 

Canter is a three-beat pace and, due to the sequence of the legs in this gait, there will always be a leading front leg – one that stretches out further than the other front leg.

When a pony is cantering on the correct lead in the arena or on a circle, his inside front leg will be leading, so, if you’re riding on the right rein, your pony’s right front leg will be leading and it will be his left front leg when on the left rein. Simple! 

Why’s it important? 

If your pony’s on the wrong canter lead, he may feel wobbly and out of balance. Plus, it can be tricky for him to perform certain moves or jump well if he’s on the wrong leg! 

Did you know?

Picking up the wrong canter lead can happen for a number of reasons, including using the wrong aids, weakness on one side and wrong bend. It can also be a sign of discomfort, so if your pony struggles with one lead, it’s worth a chat with your vet to rule out pain.

What are the aids? 

The best place to ask your pony to canter is in a corner of the arena – this is because it will naturally help create the inside bend required. 

Establish an active trot and ride some transitions and half halts to make sure your pony is listening to you. The key is to have a positive trot, but not rushing. Then, as you get to the corner…

• go into sitting trot
• sponge on the inside rein to ask for a little bend
• keep your inside leg on the girth
• slide your outside leg back a little
• maintain rein contact
• squeeze with your legs

Top tip

Avoid leaning forward into the canter transition because this can cause your pony to become unbalanced – try to sit up tall and keep your shoulders back.

Top tip

If your pony picks up the wrong canter lead, quietly bring him back to trot, rebalance him and re-establish your rhythm, then try again.

Extra help 

You could try riding a 20m circle or using a pole in the corner to encourage your pony to make a seamless transition into the correct canter lead, but always ask your instructor for help if you’re struggling.

Top tip

It’s really helpful to have an experienced person on the ground to watch and confirm whether you’re on the correct lead.

How can you tell?

Once you’ve made the transition into an established canter, glance down at your pony’s shoulders – you should notice that one leg moves further forward than the other. If it’s the outside shoulder (the one nearest the fence), you’re on the wrong canter lead, but if it’s the inside one, you’re on the correct lead and have totally nailed it! 

Over time, you’ll learn to feel for the correct canter lead, rather than look for it. Leaning down can cause your pony to become unbalanced, so it’s best to subtly glance down and try to feel for the correct lead instead.