Did you know that the natural gaits [on cue] can include trot for the gaited horse?

It was just what I needed, to be back in the saddle after several months off due to cold temperatures, darkness, and icy footing. It warmed up above freezing today, so me and Makana, my 14-year-old naturally gaited Tennessee walking horse played in the snow.

Just how many natural gaits did we tinker with on cue? Well, there was the freewalk, medium walk, flat walk, running walk, fox trot, trot, (yes, trot) and canter.

Crazy as it may sound, the trot [on cue] has actually improved Makana’s flat walk! How’s that, you ask?

After trotting for five minutes, her flat walk becomes more engaged from behind with a head-banging nod. The trot makes her engage her hindquarters, lift her back, activate her shoulders and chest to raise her wither, and helps her develops better balance and rhythm.

How many of you have tinkered with trot on cue with your gaited horse? What differences have you noticed in the quality of your horse’s movement? I’d love to hear from you if you have. Drop me a line and share how trot has improved your naturally gaited horse.