Horses, Tips

Horse riders Top Question “WHY CAN’T I SIT THE TROT?”

teach riders every week who ask me “How can I sit the trot?”

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Get an Independent Seat

Creative Commons License photo credit: netg15

Most riders don’t realize they don’t have to grip to keep themselves in the saddle. Horse riders must have an independent seat that swings separately from their back, legs and upper body.
If you grip with your legs, it is like putting a paper clip on too many papers, it will ‘pop’ off. Relax your legs and balance on the saddle. Use your legs to cue your horse rather than staying on.

The key to sitting the trot is having an independent seat.

How to get an independent seat

Step 1

Begin to test your riding by performing some simple riding exercises. At the walk remove your feet from the stirrups and simply ride without stirrups.

Step 2

While walking without stirrups reach forward with one hand and slide your hand, starting from in front of the saddle up the horse’s neck. While doing this, keep your legs in the correct riding position. If you lean forward and your leg slips back you do not have an independent seat. Prevent your legs from slipping back by stretching your legs down and forward.

Step 3 – repeat! Make riding without stirrups and riding exercises a permanent part of your daily riding program. For more tips lik this try these 20+ Exercises to Improve Your Riding Position.