In equestrian terminology, gait refers to the pattern of movement a horse uses at any given pace — the specific sequence in which the legs leave and strike the ground. Each gait has a defined number of beats, a characteristic footfall pattern, a period of suspension (or lack thereof), and a typical speed range. Understanding gaits is foundational to riding, training, assessing soundness, and appreciating equestrian sport in any discipline.
The Four Natural Gaits
Most horses move naturally in four gaits, though some breeds add one or more additional gaits to this repertoire. The four primary gaits are:
Walk
The walk is a four-beat gait with no moment of suspension — at least one hoof is always in contact with the ground. The footfall sequence is left hind, left fore, right hind, right fore, creating an even 1-2-3-4 rhythm. A good walk is active and purposeful, with the hind feet overtracking the prints of the forefeet. Walk averages around 6–7 km/h (roughly 4 mph). In dressage, walk quality is considered the hardest gait to improve and the easiest to damage through incorrect training.
Trot
The trot is a two-beat diagonal gait. Diagonal pairs of legs move together: left fore and right hind simultaneously, then right fore and left hind. Between these two footfalls there is a brief moment of suspension. The trot averages 13–14 km/h in working form and can reach significantly higher speeds in extended trot or racing trot. Riders either sit to the trot (sitting trot) or rise alternately with each diagonal beat (rising trot, also called posting). In competition, trot quality is assessed for rhythm, engagement, and the horse’s ability to work through the back.
Canter
The canter is a three-beat bounding gait with a clear moment of suspension after each three-beat sequence. The footfall pattern depends on the leading leg (or lead): on the right lead, the sequence is left hind, then right hind and left fore together, then right fore (the leading leg), followed by suspension. On the left lead, the sequence is mirrored. The canter averages 19–24 km/h in working form. Counter canter — deliberately cantering on the “wrong” lead — is a gymnastic exercise used in training and assessed in dressage tests.
Gallop
The gallop is the fastest gait, a four-beat gait with an extended moment of suspension. Unlike the canter’s three beats, the gallop breaks the diagonal pair — each hoof strikes individually. Thoroughbreds can reach speeds of 65–70 km/h (40–44 mph) at full gallop. For most riding horses, the gallop is used in cross-country, fast hacking, and racing rather than arena work. Collected or “hand” gallop is a controlled version used in eventing dressage and some advanced show jumping.
Gaited Breeds and Additional Gaits
Beyond the four standard gaits, certain breeds are selectively bred to perform additional “ambling” gaits — lateral movements offering a smooth, comfortable ride. These include:
- Tölt: The signature four-beat ambling gait of the Icelandic Horse, notable for its speed and smoothness with minimal rider bounce.
- Paso: Performed by Paso Fino and Peruvian Paso breeds — a smooth lateral four-beat gait with remarkable collection.
- Running Walk: The defining gait of the Tennessee Walking Horse — a smooth, gliding four-beat gait faster than a regular walk.
- Rack: A fast, flashy four-beat gait performed by American Saddlebreds, where each foot strikes independently.
Gait Quality and Soundness Assessment
Assessing gait quality is essential for evaluating horses for purchase, monitoring soundness, and identifying lameness. A sound horse should move with regularity — an even, consistent rhythm on a straight line and circle. Irregularity, shortening of stride, or asymmetry between limbs are indicators of discomfort that warrant veterinary investigation. Vets and equine physiotherapists use gait analysis — from trained eye assessment to digital tools — to identify subtle changes that owners might not notice day to day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a four-beat canter and a gallop?
In a true canter, the footfall is three beats with the diagonal pair striking together. When a horse begins to “run” through the canter — typically through speed or lack of balance — the diagonal pair splits into two separate beats, creating a four-beat canter. This is generally undesirable in schooled horses as it signals loss of collection and engagement. The gallop, by contrast, is a legitimate gait in its own right, characterised by an extended moment of suspension and significant ground cover.
Why does a horse on the wrong lead feel uncomfortable?
The canter lead determines which foreleg lands last in each stride, affecting the horse’s balance around turns. On the wrong lead (counter canter on a circle without being trained for it), the horse’s balance is compromised and the rider often feels a rolling, unbalanced sensation. Correct lead work ensures the horse can balance efficiently through curves. Counter canter, when trained deliberately as a gymnastic exercise, is a legitimate and valuable tool — the discomfort arises when the wrong lead happens accidentally.
Can a horse’s natural gaits be improved through training?
Yes, significantly. Training — particularly systematic dressage work — develops engagement, balance, and rhythm that enhance the quality of all gaits. Collection, where the horse carries more weight on the hindquarters, increases the activity and expression of each gait. However, a horse’s natural gaits are also genetic; breed selection matters when specific gait qualities are important. Training can optimise what nature provides, but cannot fundamentally change the horse’s basic movement type.