If your horse’s trot feels a little "meh" - and not the light, airy, expressive movement you dream of - you might unknowingly be the one getting in the way...

In this encore episode, we're revisiting one of the most powerful conversations you can have with your horse: how your seat can either create space for better movement - or accidentally block it.

Many riders think that once they master the basic rising trot, they can move on. But if you want true influence, softness, and connection, you need to dive deeper - starting with how you move with the trot, not against it.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• Why a trot is never just a trot — and how to unlock its hidden potential

• The "bit in the middle" you must feel and create for more space and suspension

• 2 easy exercises ("Up, Up, Down" and "Down, Down, Up") to reveal whether you’re influencing or blocking

• Why more energy doesn’t mean faster — and how to manage tempo without losing balance

• Signs that your seat might be the bottleneck in your horse’s progress

• Simple off-the-horse steps to improve your suppleness, balance, and influence

🐴 "The trot is the gateway. Master the basics — and then use them to create brilliance."

👉 You can find the original blog post for this episode here: Episode 1228 - Are You Blocking a Better Trot with Your Seat

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

🎯 Join the Returning to Riding Waitlist Ready to rebuild your seat, your aids, and your confidence in the saddle? Be the first to know when enrollment opens for the next round of Returning to Riding!

https://returningtoriding.com

👟The Updated Equestrian Fitness Challenge (walking and yoga) Want to get stronger, more supple, and more effective in the saddle — even if you’re short on time? Jump into the Equestrian Fitness Challenge and start seeing results in just a few weeks!

https://equestrianfitnesschallenge.com

👥 Join the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community Hang out with riders who are committed to making every ride great - and finding better ways to work with their horse.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast

 

Love the Podcast? Here’s How You Can Help:

✅ Subscribe to the Daily Strides Podcast on your favorite app so you never miss an episode ✅ Rate and Review — your feedback helps more riders find the show ✅ Share this episode with a riding friend who’s ready to unlock a better trot!

Thank you so much for being part of the Daily Strides community. Every time you listen, review, or share, you're helping build a world where more riders can create better conversations with their horses!

Links to Keep You Moving Forward:

• Returning to Riding Waitlist

• Equestrian Fitness Challenge

• Connection Weekly Virtual Horse Riding Lessons

• Daily Strides Podcast Online Community

• Website & Blog