Trot Halt Transitions
Trot Halt Transition Defined
In the trot halt transition, the horse is moving in an energetic, forward-moving trot and is then asked to cease movement, while maintaining contact and lightness in the transition.
How to Execute the Trot Halt Transition
Start in the a working trot.
Half halt to prepare the horse.
Grow tall by bracing the back slightly
Close the thighs slightly and hug the horse’s side with your legs
Gently block the forward motion with the hands.
Maintain the halt for 5 seconds.
Proceed in walk or trot by half halting gently, applying the legs and allowing slightly with the hands.
Notes:
Early in the horse’s training, it is acceptable to transition to and from the halt with a stride or two of walk.
Do not through away the reins when moving off. Simply allow the hands to go forward slightly.
Purpose of the Trot Halt Transition
To test balance and suppleness.
To test throughness.
To strengthen the hindquarter.
To increase impulsion.
To insure that the horse is in front of the leg.
Common Errors
The horse takes a stride or two in walk before trotting.
The transition is not made immediately.
The horse wanders.
The rider’s aids are too strong or too visible.
The horse does not remain on the contact.
The horse is not square in the halt.
