A quality trot is built on balance, elasticity, and whole-body coordination—not speed. Learn how diagonal timing, pelvic mechanics, topline function, and thoracic sling strength work together to create a sound, elastic trot.

At the walk, healthy horses rely on passive neck motion to support balance and efficient movement. The characteristic figure-8 pattern of the head and neck coordinates with the forelimbs, reveal­ing important clues about biomechanics, soundness, and compensation.

Spooky or resistant behavior under saddle is often an early sign of pain, not a training problem. Facial expression and performance changes can reveal underlying biomechanical dysfunction long before visible lameness appears.

When pain persists beyond tissue healing, the nervous system itself may be driving discomfort. Central sensitization and neuropathic pain help explain exaggerated reactions, inconsistent movement, and behavior changes in horses.

Some horses continue to show pain, tension, or behavior changes long after an injury has healed. Peripheral sensitization helps explain why normal touch or movement can become painful—and how early intervention can break the cycle.