Posting the trot correctly means syncing your rise and sit with your horse’s diagonal hoofbeats, using a relaxed lower leg, and coordinating your seat and core to maintain balance and rhythm. With precise timing and the right body mechanics, posting becomes effortless, improves your horse’s comfort, and enhances communication.
Why Posting the Trot Matters
Posting, the rising and sitting motion at the trot, is more than a way to avoid the bounce. When done correctly, it:
- Reduces strain on the horse’s back by distributing the rider’s weight in sync with the movement.
- Improves rider comfort and balance, making longer trots sustainable.
- Enhances communication, as the horse learns to anticipate the rider’s motion.
- Promotes rhythm and tempo, reinforcing consistent gait mechanics.
Understanding the Mechanics of the Trot
Before you can post smoothly, you need to grasp how the trot feels and why posting works.
The Trot’s Two-Beat Diagonal Rhythm
- Diagonal pairs: Left front with right hind, then right front with left hind.
- Suspension phase: A brief moment when all four hooves are off the ground.
Why Syncing with Diagonals Matters
- Rider harmony: Rising as one diagonal uplifts and sitting as the other lands minimizes interference.
- Shock absorption: Proper timing cushions the horse’s back, encouraging relaxation.
Preparing Your Body for Posting
Proper posture and core engagement lay the foundation for effective posting.
Engaging Your Core and Seat
- Neutral spine: Maintain a straight but relaxed back—no hollowing or excessive arching.
- Deep seat: Feel your seat bones. Use your core to lift and lower, not your legs.
Positioning Your Legs and Feet
- Lower leg stability: Calves hug the horse lightly; heels down to anchor your balance.
- Loose ankles: Allow your feet to flex with each rise and sit, absorbing motion.
Step-by-Step Guide to Posting the Trot
Follow these steps to develop a fluid, balanced posting trot.
1. Find the Diagonal on the Ground
- Stand beside your horse at the mounting block.
- Ask for a few ground steps in trot to feel the diagonal pairs.
- Listen or watch for the hoofbeat pattern: rise on “one,” sit on “two.”
2. Mount and Warm Up at the Walk
- Establish a forward, even walk.
- Check your posture: ears over shoulders, shoulders over hips, hips over heels.
- Engage your core and soften your elbows.
3. Transition to Posting Trot Slowly
- Ask for the trot with leg and seat aids.
- Begin rising two beats, sitting two beats.
- Keep your movements small at first—rise just a few inches.
4. Synchronize Rise with the Diagonal
- Rise as the outside front/inside hind diagonal lifts.
- Sit as that diagonal lands.
- Use the stirrup leather as a visual cue: when the leather is vertical, you should be at the top of your rise.
5. Maintain Relaxed Arms and Shoulders
- Let your elbows follow the motion—no locked arms.
- Keep light contact to avoid pulling on the bit.
6. Breathe and Relax
- Inhale as you sit; exhale as you rise.
- Regular breathing prevents stiffness and tension.
Common Posting Mistakes and Fixes
Even experienced riders slip into bad habits. These tips help correct them.
Gripping With the Knees
- Issue: Causes tension and interference with posting motion.
- Fix: Hug softly with calves; think “heels down, knees soft.”
Rising Too High
- Issue: Disrupts horse’s balance and rhythm.
- Fix: Keep rise minimal—just enough to clear the saddle.
Leaning Forward or Backward
- Issue: Shifts rider’s weight abruptly.
- Fix: Maintain vertical alignment; imagine a string pulling you up through the crown of your head.
Exercises to Improve Your Posting Trot
Regular drills build muscle memory and confidence.
Posting Without Stirrups
- Improves core engagement.
- Forces stability in your hip and leg.
Two-Point Posting Drill
- Hover above the saddle in two-point while posting.
- Encourages independent leg and seat.
Diagonal Changes Across the Arena
- Post on one diagonal for half the arena, then switch to the other.
- Enhances your ability to feel and adjust to each diagonal.
When to Post and When to Sit
Knowing when to post or sit the trot depends on training goals and the horse’s comfort.
Post the Trot When:
- Warming up or cooling down.
- Covering ground efficiently.
- Reducing bounce for novice riders.
Sit the Trot When:
- Working on collection and engagement.
- Practicing lateral work or transitions.
- Refining dressage movements that require a steady seat.
FAQs
Here are some questions and answers about posting the trot.
What’s the easiest way to tell if I’m on the correct diagonal?
Feel for the outside stirrup leather rising as you post, or ask a helper to watch which front leg moves with your rise.
Why does my horse rush when I post?
Rushing often means unclear leg or seat aids. Ensure you’re maintaining consistent contact and clear transitions.
Can posting the trot harm the horse’s back?
If done correctly—with proper timing and minimal rise—posting reduces strain. Incorrect posting, like rising too high or at the wrong diagonal, can cause discomfort.
How high should I rise in the posting trot?
Just enough to clear your seat from the saddle. Typically, a few inches is sufficient—avoid exaggerated movement.
Is posting the trot suitable for all horses?
Most horses benefit from posting in warm-up and flatwork. However, horses with back injuries may require sitting trot or a modified posting style; always consult a trainer or vet.
Mastering the posting trot sets the stage for balanced, effective riding. Focus on timing, maintain a relaxed position, and practice regularly—and you’ll post with grace and confidence.