Avoid cantering on the longe line while mounted because most horses simply don't have the balance or strength to canter on a 20-meter circle with a rider at this point. And if they do, then they have the balance to canter off the longe line too.
And that brings us to the next big milepost-riding off the longe line. Start the horse on the longe line, just as you've been doing. Then halt, have your assistant quietly unsnap the longe line, and take the big step with confidence. Start on the circle, and if he feels confident and attentive, start walking around the ring, continuing to practice the basic transitions, rewarding him for obedience, and increasing the strength of your aids if he isn't. "No" is not the correct answer to your aids.
At the walk, introduce your horse to more complex steering by doing circles, turning around jumps or other obstacles, changing rein and changing direction. And when you feel ready, urge him forward to the trot.
Continue practicing transitions, doing 20-meter (or larger) circles, turning around jumps. Praise him and end the day if he starts to feel tired so you keep him fresh and looking for more.
Often the first canter is an anxiety-inducing moment, but if the horse has been obedient to this point, there's no reason to anticipate a problem. And if he's been recalcitrant, it means either you've moved too fast or too slowly-and you have to figure out which it is by repeating the exercises you've already done or moving to more challenging exercises.
Remember that the canter can be a taxing gait for horses because only by riding can they develop the strength and balance to canter through corners and around circles.
Why is it harder? Because it's a three-beat gait-each stride has a period when they're supported by just one leg, unlike the walk and trot. To develop strength and balance, you must keep urging him forward with your legs, seat, voice and (if necessary) a dressage whip while you keep light contact with the bit.
From here, the exercises and training opportunities you can do with your youngster are nearly unlimited, and in subsequent articles we'll discuss a wide range of them.
