The extended trot is often times misunderstood. More and more frequently, we see riders striving for an exaggerated elevation of the front legs on the breeding and riding of the modern Dressage horse. Lets not forget however that the extended trot is not to be measured by the elevation of the front limbs alone, but by the length of the whole stride in itself. When the horse performs an extended trot the hoof of the front leg should land where the nose of the horse is pointing, and the elevation of the front hoof should somewhat be in coordination with the elevation of the diagonal hind leg. If the horse's strides are not level, the horse will be forced to drag the hind leg, forcing him in this way to push the mass of the body and not carry it like he should. Another fault often being ignored is the degree in which the horse is being forced into a frame, instead of letting him out, so that he can use his head and neck to balance himself better. The neck should not be made shorter, through forceful use of the reins but rather the horse should be allowed to stretch a little more forward and down, so that he feels comfortable at the lengthening strides. The moment of suspension should be longer, not quicker. This means that the horse will take longer steps and naturally will have to take a longer time to land after the moment of suspension. If the horse takes quicker steps, not only will it be more uncomfortable for the rider to sit the trot, it will also be for the horse. That is why we must give the horse time to understand what it is needed. We should collect the energy and then let the power out, let the power explode into the extended trot. A task much easier said than done. We must ask for the engagement of the hind leg through our seat and legs, checking through gentle half-halts, and then letting the horse out. Transitions from one gait to another, and within each gait will be of much help to develop this movement. Asking for extensions at random moments will also be beneficial, especially asking out of the shoulder-in and renver.

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