Definition

Noun: A style of horse riding at a trot where the rider rhythmically rises up and sits down in the saddle in time with the horse's stride. Specifically, the rider stands up in the stirrups (rises) for one beat of the trot and sits down for the next beat, typically rising as the horse's outside front leg moves forward.

Usage

This term is used specifically in the context of equestrianism, particularly in English-style riding such as hunt seat, dressage, and basic riding instruction. It is the standard method for riding a trot for extended periods, as it is more comfortable for both horse and rider than a sitting trot. It is also called the "posting trot."

Examples

• Noun:
  • The instructor told the beginner to practice the rising trot before attempting a sitting trot.
  • Maintaining a consistent rising trot requires good balance and core strength.
  • She felt more secure once she mastered the rhythm of the rising trot.

Advanced Usage

• "To be in/on the correct diagonal": In a rising trot, the rider should rise as the horse's outside front leg (the leg closest to the rail or outside of the arena) moves forward. This is called being on the "correct diagonal." It helps balance the horse, especially when turning.
  • The judge marked her down because she was not on the correct diagonal during her rising trot.

Variants and Related Words

• Posting trot (n): A direct synonym for .
• Sitting trot (n): The contrasting gait where the rider remains seated in the saddle throughout the horse's two-beat trotting stride.
• Two-point position (n): A riding position, often used at the gallop or jump, where the rider's seat is out of the saddle, bearing weight in the stirrups and leaning forward. This is different from the rhythmic up-and-down motion of the rising trot.

Synonyms

• Posting trot: The most common direct synonym.

Antonyms

• Sitting trot: A trot where the rider remains seated without rising.

Noun

1. the rider rises from the saddle every second stride