Bouncy Trot??

[paws4applause]

I need some suggestions for my riding. I resently started leasing a 8 yr old appy so I could have some time in the saddle - but I am having trouble keeping my butt in it!! He has a very bouncy trot, and I am having trouble staying in the correct position and in the saddle. I have no trouble getting into the trot, or having any issues with speed. The bounce is tossing me upward and forward - throwing me out of position, with me leaning way forward and legs back. Even in rising trot, I will be on the right diagional and he will bounce me onto the wrong one, then when I want to change back I am unable to 'sit two' because I get bounced around lol.

I have been riding for years and have never had this problem with a horse. Does anyone have any suggestions??

[LoneStar]

Ha ha I have this problem with one particular horse I ride, and also when I ride very big horses because I'm not used to the longer strides - it's so embarrasing!

It might be worth doing sitting trot for about ten seconds before you start to rise - really focus on relaxing your lower back and hips and letting your seat melt into the saddle. You bounce more when you tense up, so lean back slightly and stay nice and relaxed and move with him. It might be helpful to slow the pace down a little - think collected trot rather than extended trot!

Other than that its just a case of getting used to his action - just think how smooth other horses will feel after him! And don't worry - you probably look a lot more graceful than you feel.

Hope this helps!

[paws4applause]

Thanks - I will try that. I think I may tense up a little when I go around the turns lol - trying to hold on!! ha ha When I go see him this week, I am going to do a lot of circles and surfintines (sp?) so I can get use to it and to steady his trot. I find it hard to do sitting trot when I go to ask him for canter. Hopefully this week will be better. :o