Whether you should prepare for sitting trot or rising trot depends on your riding goals and the specific requirements of the discipline you are practicing. Sitting trot requires more core strength and balance, while rising trot can be less physically demanding. If you are preparing for dressage or showing, you may want to focus on perfecting your sitting trot. However, if you are a beginner or focusing on building your overall riding skills, starting with rising trot may be more beneficial. It's important to consult with your instructor to determine the best approach for your individual needs and goals. **

Trot is a two-beat diagonal gait where the horse's legs move in diagonal pairs. Harness racing trot is a specific type of trot where horses pull a two-wheeled cart called a sulky. Gallop is a four-beat gait where all four legs of the horse leave the ground at the same time. The main differences between trot, harness racing trot, and gallop lie in the number of beats, speed, and purpose of each gait. **

It is important to prepare for both the rising trot and the sitting trot as they are both essential skills in horseback riding. The rising trot is typically used for longer periods of riding to help both the rider and the horse conserve energy. The sitting trot, on the other hand, is used for more advanced movements and exercises that require a deeper connection and communication between the rider and the horse. By practicing both the rising and sitting trot, you will become a more well-rounded and skilled rider. **

To practice sitting trot or improve sitting trot on lively horses, it is important to focus on developing a strong core and maintaining a deep seat in the saddle. Engaging in exercises such as Pilates or yoga can help improve core strength and stability, which is essential for sitting trot. Additionally, practicing rhythmic breathing and relaxation techniques can help you stay calm and connected with the horse's movement. It is also beneficial to work with a knowledgeable instructor who can provide guidance and feedback on your position and aids while riding the sitting trot on lively horses. **

When trotting over poles, it is important to maintain a consistent and balanced rhythm. Lightly trotting over the poles allows the horse to maintain its balance and rhythm, while still engaging its muscles. Completely unloading over the poles can disrupt the horse's rhythm and balance, and may lead to a loss of impulsion. Therefore, it is generally better to lightly trot over the poles to maintain the horse's balance and rhythm. **

An extended trot is a movement in dressage where the horse lengthens its stride and covers more ground while maintaining a steady rhythm and balance. The horse's legs reach further forward and backward, creating a more ground-covering and expressive trot. This movement is often seen in dressage tests and showcases the horse's athleticism and ability to move with power and grace. Riders must have good control and balance to execute the extended trot correctly. **

The trot is a two-beat diagonal gait where the horse's legs move in diagonal pairs. As the horse moves forward, the front and hind legs on opposite sides move together in a rhythmic pattern. The horse's body moves in an up-and-down motion, with a moment of suspension between each diagonal pair of legs. The rider must learn to follow this motion with their seat and post in rhythm with the horse's movement to maintain balance and harmony. The trot is a versatile gait used in various equestrian disciplines, including dressage, show jumping, and eventing. **

The main difference between sitting trot and rising trot when riding a horse is the way the rider moves with the horse's motion. In sitting trot, the rider stays seated in the saddle and moves with the horse's trotting motion, using their core muscles to absorb the movement. In rising trot, the rider rises out of the saddle slightly with each stride of the horse, following the motion of the horse's trot with their body. Rising trot allows the rider to stay more in sync with the horse's movement and can be less jarring on the rider's body. **