How to Train at a Slow Trot
The primary purpose of training at a slow trot is to build your horse's muscles and improve its conditioning. Trotting is the gait that uses the most muscles and requires the most physical effort from the horse. The effect of working a horse and training it at the trot is similar to having a human jog several miles; a number of muscles are worked and stamina is increased as the workout is repeated on a regular basis. There are several training activities you can work on while training at a slow trot.
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Instructions
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Determine where you want to work your horse. One of the primary benefits of trotting work is that you can train at a trot virtually anywhere, including in the arena, round pen or on a trail ride. The gait is the most important part of trot work.
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Saddle up your horse and warm him up at a walk for 5 to 10 minutes. Ask your horse to trot and then establish the speed of the gait that you want to work out. A slow English trot is still significantly faster than a slow Western jog. Establish a consistent pace for your slow trot. Consistency is important for getting a good work out.
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Work the horse by trotting for 10 to 20 minutes, depending on your horse's fitness level. Take breaks as needed if your horse is not fit enough to maintain the trot for 10 minutes. To prevent horse from getting bored, work on patterns and bending exercises. Patterns may involve trotting in circles, diamonds or through pre-designated courses. While working on patterns, always maintain the trot.
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Walk your horse for 5 to 10 minutes or until thoroughly cooled down after you have finished the trot work.
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Tips & Warnings
Add trotting poles to your activities if your horse is becoming bored or you want to add an extra challenge.
Maintaining a slow trot can be a challenge for some horses and their riders. If your horse persistently wants to trot more quickly than you do, you can slow him down by performing half-halts in between strides. A half-halt involves lightly tightening then releasing the pressure on the reins as well as pausing your seat for a moment; this creates pressure that encourages the horse to slow down. More advanced riders can use their seats to slow the horse down by limiting their own movement. If you are posting the trot, posting slowly will often force the horse to adapt to your speed. Posting at a different speed than the horse is traveling will put it off balance. Do not hang in the horse's mouth to slow it down.
Do not overwork your horse, as health problems can arise. If your horse is becoming unusually lathered or appears to be having problems with the level of activity, take breaks as necessary.
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