I rode Jackson for about 45 minutes. He
seems to be improving a little bit each time
I work him. I tried to pay attention to my
posture and to sit up and to keep my upper
body open. Is my body position better?
Jackson had some nice moments in the trot. I
could feel him kick in another gear once or
twice. I am working on getting a few moments
of really forward and then letting him rest
in a less forward trot. I hope to get him
stronger and more relaxed in the “working”
gaits.
He is slowly improving in the half pass. If
I pay attention, he shows me where I need to
do more work.
At the canter, I think he has more
engagement on the left lead than the right
lead. In the left lead, I felt that he was
more balanced if I worked at keeping my
weight to the outside. I think that we do
need to do more forward work on the right
lead though. I seems like he short strides
on the inside hind leg going to the right.
Is that correct?
I am seeing a big difference in his response
to my go forward cues. I get a much bigger
surge of power from the halt or walk to the
canter.
I also worked on doing some of the counter
bends, if that is the right word, that Ann
suggested. We will see if there is
improvement.
Thanks all for the great advice. I am so
pleased with the progress that Jackson has
been making!
