[Horsefreak3352]

I'm not sure if this should be in this topic but i am having troubles keeping my butt in the saddle while i am cantering, see i am new to english i am a western rider taking english lessons and i am going to be learning a lot more, i know how to ride it and my horse is smooth its just in that cantering its hard to keep my butt in the saddle, i will take any english riding tips i can get so i can go to an english show soon, o and p.s

anyone know any shows in alberta canada for the month of August?

hehe and p,s again, this is my mare yawning :P

[AllAroundRdr]

Move WITH your horse. Put your weight in your heels and in your butt and roll your hips forward.

Go with the movement not against.

[horse_mom]

think heels down and then grip with your thighs.i've heard they have breeches and seat covers that have a little bit of stick to them to help stay on

[rascalboy]

Lol, me too. Sit up, lean back, and 'ride the back of the saddle'. Turn your hips under (pretend you're sitting on your back pockets.) It'll make your back flat and help you sit up. Use your knees to try and get the horse to go slower.

[FincaPerlitas]

There was another thread about the same topic last week with some excellent advice.

Click here to read it: sitting in my seat

[BriLeigh]

Use your knees to try and get the horse to go slower.

I disagree with using your knees. Your knees should not be pinching or really "on" the saddle at all. If you want to go slower then use a half halt and close your lower legs on your horse, but not your knee and sit deeper.

Try cantering it with no stirrups. Just let your legs hang down nice and long and see if that helps you find your rhythm in the english saddle.

[Annasmom]

My trainer makes me canter and put my thumb under my butt and sit on it. Its really challenging but it helps!

[Zeta]

My instructor used to get me to canter in a circle, put my reins in one hand and hold the back of the saddle tightly which pulled my bottom into the saddle. Once I got the feel for how it should feel I could slowly take my hand and retain my position. It helped me but I was a little nervous about how my horse would react to cantering a circle with my reins in one hand but he was ok.

[glideride]

Try to be sure you are centered by having your heel, hip, shoulder, ear all lined up with heels down and "feel" for the horses movement and just try to ride along with that motion...each time you try it it should become easier...If you are gripping to tightly with your knees you will bounce out of the saddle...The best thing is try to relax and go with the horses motion...

[TheNoviceRider]

There is a novice rider show at GreenBriar August 9-10 , (Calgary area). I haven't been to that specific show but the novice circuit is great for beginners and people learning. A great relaxed environment... usually.