Three experienced trainers from different disciplines/riding interests, Australian dressage coach and scholar Coralie Smyth, Australian-based Argentinean trainer Carlos Taberniberri, and US Western trainer, Josh Lyons, discuss the canter depart in-depth. CANTER FOOTFALL SEQUENCE Canter Right O ut in the paddock a horse can move into canter with seamless ease, perform effortless flying changes, pirouette at will, collect and extend with perfect balance and grace. Various elements need to be in place for it to be as seamless under a rider, which is why the canter depart can sometimes be a sticking point in training, for both rider and horse. Numerous factors can make it difficult for a horse to canter when asked, or take a particular lead. Lack of balance or straightness, confusion about the aids, or confusing signals from the rider can cause problems, setting up tensions in both, and making a smooth and easy transition more unlikely. Some riders, when asked, Continued 1ST Left hind 2ND Right hind, left front Right front 3RD 4TH Suspension