The changes that have occurred in the Trail class over the years are undeniable. From the kind of horse typically entered in the class to the course design itself, it’s a discipline that has seen major shifts and an undeniable growth in popularity in recent decades. With that growth, more and more people are keeping a close eye on the top competitors and the nuanced way in which they approach the course and its obstacles. Observers see top trainers and competitors use their bodies in various ways as they ride the course, which has had a trickle-down effect from open classes to non-pro. Trail experts, though, say the use of the rider’s body to help a horse through a course, without a clear understanding of why those moves are helpful or necessary, can actually be problematic and perhaps even end up as a deduction on a judge’s card.