How to Train a Horse to Trot

While trotting comes naturally to a horse, teaching the horse to trot under saddle can sometimes be difficult. Many horses are reluctant to move out when first being trained to ride, and owners need to use care to teach the horse to trot correctly under saddle. As with so much in horse training, it is important to have plenty of patience, and to read the cues your horse gives you on each ride.

Things You'll Need

  • Bridle
  • Saddle
  • Saddle pad
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the saddle pad and saddle on your horse. Tighten the girth just enough so that the saddle will not slip when you mount up. Leaving the saddle a bit loose will give your horse extra freedom of movement under saddle.

    • 2

      Mount your horse and allow him to stand quietly for a moment or two.

    • 3

      Squeeze your horse gently with your knees to move him out into a walk. Direct him to walk for at least five to 10 minutes before asking for a trot, which allows your horse's muscles to loosen up, reducing the soreness that could hamper further training.

    • 4

      Lay your legs against the horse evenly on both sides and squeeze lightly. At the same time, cluck to your horse to urge him to move on to a trot. Continue urging your horse until he begins to trot. Squeeze again if the horse starts to move back into a walk.

    • 5

      Trot for five to 10 strides at a time at first. Bring the horse back to a walk and allow him to relax, then ask for a trot again. Your walk-to-trot transitions should get better and smoother over time as you practice.