How do I introduce the counter-canter to a horse for the first time?

Introduce the counter-canter gradually by building on what the horse already does well. Begin by tracking a large figure-eight and, instead of asking for a simple or flying change at the midpoint, continue straight for a few strides in the counter-canter before returning to the correct lead. This gives the horse a brief experience of the counter-canter without demanding it hold balance through a full corner. From there, progress to shallow loops: ride down the long side, shallow loop away from the rail 5–10 meters and return, maintaining the same lead throughout. The corner at the return is where most green horses break to the trot — keep it shallow enough that the horse can manage without losing rhythm. As balance improves, deepen the loops, then introduce full 20-meter circles on the counter-canter. Throughout, your aids remain the same as a true canter: outside leg back to maintain the lead, inside leg at the girth to support forward energy, soft contact on the outside rein. Avoid over-bending the horse to the inside, which collapses the ribcage and makes balance harder. The horse's neck should remain nearly straight to the direction of the lead, even though you're tracking the opposite direction.