Lecture Notes: How to Not Bounce in Your Sitting Trot

Introduction

• Topic: Preventing bouncing in the sitting trot.
• Context: High demand for this information due to previous viral content on bouncing in the canter.
• Objective: To share a strategic, proven system to stop bouncing in the trot.

Key Components to Address

1. Understanding the Symptom

   • Bouncing is a symptom of underlying issues.
   • Importance of understanding what mechanically happens to the body to cause bouncing.

2. Addressing the Causes

   • Identify what can be done to address the causes of bouncing.

3. Exercises for Improvement

   • Provide exercises to improve the ability to maintain a sitting trot without bouncing.
   • Suitable for riders of all levels.

The Sitting Trot as a Reflection of Training

• The sitting trot serves as a "crystal ball" indicating how well the horse is going in terms of the training scale.
• Applicable to all riders, from beginners to Grand Prix competitors.

Mechanics of Bouncing

• Peg Analogy:
  • Visualize an old wooden peg trying to grip clothes on a line, symbolizing the rider’s bouncing off the saddle.
  • Bouncing occurs when riders grip with their legs, causing their body to lift off the saddle.
  • Importance of relaxing and not gripping to maintain contact with the horse.

Causes of Bouncing

1. Biomechanical Factors

   • Incorrect information leads many to believe they must grip tightly with their legs.
   • Proper stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, squat down with pelvis slightly forward.
   • Riders should feel like they are standing on the horse with a light, soft contact.

2. Stirrups

   • Ensure stirrups are the correct length.
   • Riders should be able to stand up without locking their knees.

3. Mental Factors

   • Fear of falling or being judged can lead to gripping and bouncing.
   • Overcoming mental blocks is crucial for effective riding.

Exercises to Prevent Bouncing

• Building Confidence:

  • Start with small goals; practice transitions between walk and trot.
  • Focus on maintaining seat position and balance.
  • Gradually increase time spent in sitting trot.

• Rising Trot Practice:

  • Begin in rising trot to establish rhythm before transitioning to sitting trot.
  • Practice sitting for set periods, allowing for aborting if balance is lost.
  • Reinforce the importance of maintaining rhythm and connection with the horse.

The Crystal Ball Concept

• Emphasizes that all movements should be achievable in rising trot before attempting sitting trot.
• Rising trot can assess if the horse is moving independently or if the rider is overly controlling.
• Shows the importance of maintaining a relaxed connection with the horse to ensure correct training scale application.

Conclusion

• Bouncing in the sitting trot can be prevented through understanding, practice, and proper biomechanics.
• Riders are encouraged to believe in themselves and utilize the tools provided to improve their riding skills.
• Encouragement to engage with the channel for further learning opportunities.