What is the rising trot about?

One of the first ridden skills new riders learn is the rising trot (also called posting). Rising trot and sitting trot are both used in all levels of riding and different disciplines and are both useful tools for any rider to learn. When taught correctly the rising trot is a way to move in harmony and balance with the horse in trot, making that bouncy gait more comfortable for both horse and rider. When done poorly the rising trot can become agonizing for the horse, while throwing them off balance, a hindrance for progress for the rider and a block for communication between rider and horse. This is why I put great emphasis and take all the time needed to teach the rising trot with proper balance in mind.

The most common mistake I see in rising trot is the rider rising straight up and down rather than a forward and back movement of the hips. This creates a thump on the horse’s back with each second stride and often a pull on the reins on the opposite stride, as the rider relies on her hands for balance. It goes without saying that this pattern of riding is bound to create a whole range of problems for the horse and a great deal of frustration for the rider, not understanding what is really causing his horse to “misbehave”.

The method I use for teaching a balanced rising trot involves one on one teaching time, whether in private lessons or some one on one time within a small group lesson. It requires practice of balance with no hands in stand, walk and then in trot, while the horse is led by rope and the rider is free to focus on balancing alone. Only when the rider can perform a well-balanced rising trot without any reliance on the hands can they progress to holding the reins. This allows them to maintain a decent level of harmony with the horse, allowing proper communication and making the ride smooth and pleasant for both horse and rider.