Gaited horses are known for their smooth, four-beat gait that makes riding them a pleasure. But some riders want their gaited horses to go faster. Whether you’re a trail rider looking for a little more speed or a competitive rider wanting to maximize your gaited horse’s performance, there are some simple techniques you can use to make your gaited horse go faster.
Understand Different Gaits
Before you can make your gaited horse go faster, it’s important to understand the different gaits that your horse can perform. Gaited horses can perform a number of different four-beat gaits, including the walk, trot, pace and canter. Each of these gaits has its own unique characteristics, and the speed of each gait can vary depending on the horse’s conformation and training.
Increase Cadence
One of the simplest ways to make your gaited horse go faster is to increase the cadence, or rate of steps, of the gait. This can be achieved by using a combination of leg pressure, verbal cues and whip taps. When increasing the cadence of the gait, be sure to do so gradually so as not to startle your horse and keep them from performing their best.
Use Leg Pressure
Leg pressure is one of the most effective ways to encourage your horse to go faster. By applying a light pressure to your horse’s sides with your legs, you can encourage them to speed up. Be sure not to use too much pressure, as this can cause your horse to become tense and resistant.
Use Verbal Cues
Verbal cues such as clucking, kissing and other sounds can also be used to encourage your horse to go faster. It’s important to use these cues in a consistent manner so your horse can learn what you expect from them.
Use Whip Taps
Using whip taps is a great way to make your gaited horse go faster. This technique involves lightly tapping your horse with a whip as a cue to speed up. It’s important to use this technique in a consistent manner and be sure not to use too much force or your horse may become scared and resistant.
Improve Your Horse’s Conformation
Improving your horse’s conformation is another way to make them go faster. Good conformation allows your horse to move more easily and with less effort, which can help them move faster. Look for horses with conformation that is well suited to the gaits you want them to perform.
Strengthen Your Horse’s Muscles
Strong muscles are essential for a horse to perform at their best. Strengthening your horse’s muscles through regular exercise can help them move more efficiently and with greater speed.
Use Training Aids
Training aids such as side reins and draw reins can be used to help your horse learn how to move faster. These aids are designed to encourage your horse to move in a certain way, which can help them become faster and more efficient.
Condition Your Horse Regularly
Regular conditioning is important for any horse, but especially for gaited horses. Conditioning helps to build your horse’s endurance and strength, which can help them move faster and with more power.
Conclusion
Making your gaited horse go faster is possible with the right training and conditioning. By understanding different gaits and using techniques such as leg pressure, verbal cues, whip taps and training aids, you can help your horse reach their potential. Additionally, improving your horse’s conformation and strengthening their muscles through regular exercise can help them move faster and more efficiently. With the right training and conditioning, you can make your gaited horse go faster and enjoy the ride.
Gaited horses, cadence, leg pressure, verbal cues, whip taps, conformation, muscles, training aids, conditioning