3 Exercises to Improve Your Rising Trot: Balance, Stability and Control

Feeling a little unsteady in your rising trot after some time out of the saddle? Don’t worry. You’re not alone!

Perhaps your lower leg isn’t where it used to be, you’re landing a little heavily in the saddle, or you feel as though you’re relying on your hands to keep yourself balanced.

The good news is that there are exercises you can incorporate into your riding to help improve your balance, stability and coordination.

Here are three exercises to help you develop a more secure and effective rising trot.

1. Light Seat Transitions

Is your lower leg slipping out from underneath you?

Try alternating between a light seat (two-point position) and rising trot every six to eight strides.

This exercise encourages you to find your balance over your feet rather than relying on the reins or using the saddle for support.

Focus on:

• Keeping your lower leg stable.
• Maintaining your balance over your feet.
• Moving smoothly between the two positions.
• Avoiding heavy landings when returning to the saddle.

The objective is to develop a more independent and balanced position.

2. Stand and Hover

Standing in your stirrups and lowering yourself into a hover just above the saddle can help develop leg strength, stability and control.

Focus on maintaining your balance without gripping with your knees or pulling on the reins.

Rather than forcing your heels down, concentrate on finding a natural, balanced position with your weight supported through your leg and foot.

The aim is to develop stability without unnecessary tension.

3. One-Handed Rising Trot

Ready for another challenge?

With appropriate supervision and a suitable horse, try briefly taking one hand away from the reins while maintaining your rising trot.

This challenges your balance and core stability and helps you recognize whether you’re relying on your hands for support.

The goal is to maintain your position independently, without using the reins to balance yourself.

Work within your ability and return to using both reins whenever necessary.

Explore my riding lessons in Nova Scotia or get in touch to discuss getting back in the saddle.

A Little Practice Goes a Long Way

These exercises are designed to help you become more aware of your balance, position and coordination.

Remember, the objective isn’t simply to make your legs stronger. It’s to develop an independent seat and a position that allows you to move with your horse rather than against it.

Try incorporating these exercises into your training with guidance from your instructor.

And remember, progress comes from thoughtful, consistent practice.

Want to Improve Your Riding Position?

Understanding how your body moves and influences your horse is an important part of becoming a more effective rider.

Through rider biomechanics and structured rider development, we can work on balance, coordination, stability and developing a more independent seat.

Learn more about Rider Biomechanics and Horse Simulator Training or explore my riding lessons.