Trot

A gait of a horse

For other uses, see Trot (disambiguation).

A horse trotting in a field

Animation of a horse trotting.

Youth rider performing a trot in Western riding

A horse in a dressage trot

The trot is a two-beat diagonal gait of the horse where the legs move in diagonal pairs. This means that the right front leg and the left hind leg move together, and then the left front leg and the right hind leg move together. It is faster than a walk but slower than a canter or gallop.

Characteristics

The trot is a natural gait possessed by all horses, as well as most other equines. It is a symmetrical gait that is often used for long-distance travel because it is energy-efficient. The trot is a very stable gait, and it is often used in dressage, show jumping, and other equestrian disciplines.

Variations

There are several variations of the trot, including:

• Working trot: A natural, forward-moving trot with a regular rhythm.
• Collected trot: A slower, more elevated trot with increased engagement from the hindquarters.
• Extended trot: A faster trot with a longer stride, showing maximum ground cover.
• Rising trot: Also known as posting trot, where the rider rises out of the saddle in rhythm with the horse's gait.

Training and Riding

Riding the trot requires balance and coordination from the rider. In the rising trot, the rider must post in time with the horse's movement, which can help reduce the impact on the horse's back. In the sitting trot, the rider remains seated, which requires more skill to maintain balance and harmony with the horse.

Health and Safety

Trotting can be beneficial for a horse's fitness and muscle development. However, it is important to ensure that the horse is properly conditioned and that the rider is skilled enough to avoid causing discomfort or injury to the horse.

Related pages

• Canter
• Gallop
• Dressage
• Equestrianism

Gallery

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  A horse demonstrating a collected trot.
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  Trakehner horse in dressage.
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  Dressage rider performing an extended trot.
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  A horse in a trot during a competition.
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  Arabian horse in a saddle seat trot.
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  Another Trakehner in dressage.
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  Andalusian horse in a collected trot.

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