Canter is the most complex of the school gaits, and, when carried out well, the most expressive and impressive. It is the gait from which, in its finished form, complex movements such as tempi changes, zigzags and pirouettes are produced. Because of its complexity, it is essential that due consideration is given to the quality of the gait at each stage of its development. Rushed or careless work will seriously compromise the gait, and advanced movements - if they can be produced at all - will be forced travesties, lacking elegance and grace. In this book, various masters give their thoughts on the correct development of the gait and changes of lead. Their thoughts on collecting and lengthening the gait, and lateral work in canter, will be subjects for further titles in this series. The Canter is Book 2 in the Masters of Equitation series and in each volume the editor has collected the views of leading authorities on a specific gait or movement in order to form a unique reference work on each subject for the serious rider and trainer. The great masters are introduced by a leading present-day expert accompanied by the relevant instructions, and there is a summing up by the compiler.
The series will eventually form a mini-reference library for anyone with an interest in academic and practical equitation.