Definition

Noun: A pace of a horse, specifically a trot, in which the rider remains seated in the saddle without posting (rising and sitting in rhythm with the horse's gait). It requires the rider to absorb the horse's motion through their seat and back.

Usage

The term "sitting trot" is used to describe both the rider's technique and the specific gait being performed. It is a fundamental skill in equestrian disciplines like dressage.

Examples

• The instructor asked the class to practice the sitting trot to improve their balance and connection with the horse.
• Performing a correct sitting trot on a bouncy horse is challenging for a beginner.
• The dressage test required a sequence of movements at the sitting trot.

Advanced Usage

• As a point of instruction: Often used in commands or critiques, e.g., "Now, transition to a sitting trot," or "Your sitting trot needs a more relaxed lower back."
• Contrast with "posting trot" or "rising trot": The sitting trot is explicitly contrasted with the trot where the rider rises out of the saddle. For example: "For this exercise, please remain at a sitting trot instead of posting."

Variants and Related Words

• Sitting Trot (Compound Noun): The standard form. Note: "Sitting" here functions as a participle adjective modifying "trot."
• Trot (Noun/Verb): The two-beat diagonal horse gait.
• Posting Trot / Rising Trot (Noun): The trot where the rider rhythmically rises and sits.
• Collected Trot (Noun): A shortened, elevated trot often performed while sitting.

Synonyms

• Seated Trot: A less common but descriptive synonym.

Related Phrases

• To sit the trot: The verbal phrase meaning to perform a sitting trot.
  • Example: She is learning to sit the trot smoothly.
• At a sitting trot: A prepositional phrase describing the pace of movement.
  • Example: The rider entered the arena at a sitting trot.

Noun

1. the rider sits still in the saddle