Understanding the Mechanics of the Posting Trot

Riders, have you ever felt like you're lagging behind in the posting trot, struggling to keep up with your horse's rhythm? Often, this stems from not opening our hips enough on the "up" phase. We tend to think of rising as simply sitting and standing, like getting in and out of a chair. But there's a more effective approach!

Think "Squat," Not "Sit"

Imagine rising as a controlled squat, moving up and down over your feet. Your feet are your base, and your ankles act as springs, connecting you seamlessly with your horse's movement.

Try This Exercise at the Halt

1. Stand in your stirrups.

2. Rise onto your tippy toes. Notice how this naturally brings your pelvis forward, opening your hips.

3. Lower your heels. Feel your balance shift backward, sometimes causing you to "fall" into the saddle.

This exercise highlights the importance of using the balls of your feet to engage your hips.

Applying it to the Rising Trot

While you won't be on your tippy toes in the rising trot, the principle remains the same. Focus on:

• Pushing up from the balls of your feet. This will help "snap" your hips open.

• Allowing your ankles to act as springs. This will help you absorb and flow with the horses movement.

By shifting your focus from a simple "sit-stand" to a more dynamic "squat-like" motion, you'll find it easier to stay in sync with your horse and improve your sitting trot. Focus on the intention to rise into the next stride; this will help your body move forward in rhythm.