Definition:

A trot is a common gait. It is two beat mode of forward movement where the horse's diagonal hind and forelegs reach out and land at the same time. The trot is often ridden or driven over long distance as it is the most efficient in terms of energy use and speed. It is more stable and safer over rough ground than a canter or lope because there are two hooves on the ground between moments of suspension, rather than one like the canter.

The trot can have many variations in speed and impulsion. The slowest jog, like that used while herding cattle, is energy conserving for the horse and comfortable for the rider. A collected trot is more contained but energetic and an extended trot is powerful and long.

If a horse is suspected lame, the unsoundness is often easiest to see at the trot, and it is possible to determine whether a hind or foreleg is the problem.

Pronunciation: t r aw t

Also Known As: sitting trot, posting trot, medium trot, extended trot, working trot,

Examples:

The first dressage tests are walk trot-tests.