turning off the wall at a canter

Question
At the level that I'm in my trainer expects me to be able to turn off the wall and circle at a canter in group. However, with my previous trainer we only did individual canters and were never taught how to do this or practiced. When I try to circle my horse speeds up because i'm using my legs wrong. How do i fix this?

Answer
Hello Cami,

I am surprised that your coach has not explained to you how you should do this.  Did you ask for elaboration?

You must maintain a certain distance behind the horse in front of you. All the horses should be properly spaced before anything else is done.

Then when it is called for off the wall canter, first you must execute a half halt. And then another, all the while using your legs and seat to continue the canter while you make the turn.

The secret is in the half-halt.  This is an aid that is composed of seat, legs, torso(braced back) and lastly the outside rein.  It must be learned and you should have your teacher teach you how to do it before you are turning off the wall in anything.  The half-halt will get your horse more balanced on his haunches and he won't fall forward on his forehand and speed up.  Your braced back/torso will help keep him balanced and your legs will keep up the pace and gait.  Sounds to me that you may need another trainer with a bit more knowledge, or one who is able to explain to you a bit better.

Let me know if you understand this. If not, come back and I'll give you some suggested reading to do.

Best wishes,
Dorothy