Horse Trotting

When first trotting on a horse, if balance is lost, remember that it's okay to use the horse's mane as a way to prevent against pulling on the reins. Find out how to allow the hips to relax in a trot with help from an equestrian riding instructor in this video on horse trotting.

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Hello, my name is Chelsey Sawtell, primary riding instructor at Black Friar Farm in Kingsley Springs, Tennessee. And today our lesson is going to be trotting. Of course before starting any equine activity, you want to make sure that you have the proper safety measures taken. Boots with a heel, long pants, and a helmet are always in good taste. The trot is a two beat gate. Once you have mastered the walk,and are ready to move on to the trot, begin by clucking...or applying light leg pressure with your lower calf to the horses side. This will move them forward into the two beat trot. When you first trot, if you find yourself losing your balance, there's nothing wrong with grabbing mane to prevent you from pulling on the reins and catching the horse in its mouth. Pulling the horse's mane does not cause discomfort. And they would much rather you pulling on their hair than the metal bit that runs behind their teeth. The slower the trot, the easier it will be for you to allow your hips to relax and move in a left, right motion with the horses' hind legs. Steering is the same with the trot as it would be at the walk. Right rein pressure will turn the horse to the right. Whereas left rein pressure will turn the horse to the left. Pressure to both reins will slow and eventually halt the horse. If when first trotting, you find yourself bouncing or losing your balance, slow the horse back to a walk and re-ask for the trot, obtaining your seat again. It is most difficult, once you begin to bounce at the trot, to find your seat. Therefore, a changing gate to something more comfortable, is always recommended. Once you have mastered the sitting trot, you can move on to posting. So, in conclusion, when learning to trot, always start off slowly. Where the appropriate head and foot gear, and most importantly, have fun.