Why do you post when you trot?
Posting is to rise out of the saddle seat for every other stride of the horse’s forelegs, thus smoothing out the jolts you will encounter if you just sit. This makes riding the trot much more comfortable for you and your horse. It doesn’t matter if you ride English or western.
Is posting better for the horse?
“Posting makes you a better rider and helps create balance, which is necessary for anything you want to do at a higher level of riding, both western and English.” To develop rhythm and confidence in young or green horses. By posting the trot, you can transfer your own balance and rhythm to the horse.
How do I improve my horse’s balance?
Keep contact in the reins, but don’t hang on the horse’s mouth or use it to balance. To improve your balance while horse riding, even more, do this movement with your hands on your hips. Make sure your horse is on a lead rope, or on a lunge rein to ensure it’s safe.
What muscles do you use to post the trot?
The posting trot is done with the Hamstring Muscles, NOT the Quadriceps. Your hamstrings are on the back of your thigh, the quadriceps on the front. Your quads help you rise out of the saddle and the hamstrings pull you back into the saddle.
Can you post a trot in a western saddle?
Cowboys on the range always post the trot, having learned long ago just like their hunt seat comrades that the posting trot is not only the most comfortable when you’re covering long distances at a good clip but it produces balanced, evenly-muscled horses when you switch up your diagonals.
How can I make my horse more responsive?
As soon as your horse reacts positively, praise him lavishly. Lots of pats and verbal praise is key. Go back to a halt and repeat the process again. Always, always start with a very light aid, so that you give your horse the chance to respond to this gentle squeeze.
How do you balance when trotting?
Go into a half-seat position while at the walk. To do this, put more weight into your stirrups and heels, keeping your knees soft, and take your seat slightly out of the saddle. Walk, holding this position, using mane or a neck strap to help you balance. Concentrate on keeping your balance as the horse moves.