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The Runwalk
Tennessee Walking Horses have the inherent ability to carry their walking
posture to greater stride and speed than any other breed of horse.
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The
overall form of the running walk remains the same as that of the flatfoot walk,
but the reach and tempo extends to intermediate speeds of 8 – 10 mph.
NOTE: the runwalk is not a speed gait, but an intermediate gait. This gait
should always remain fluid with all energy forward moving, and proper form
should never be sacrificed for excessive speed. The hooves should continue to
lift and place independently, while the weight transfer becomes more rolling
with the increased tempo and stride.
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Overstride will increase
as well, averaging from 10 to 24 inches while remaining in that correct and
even timing.
Total stride lengths
often range anywhere from 6 to as much as 10 feet depending on the size and
abilities of the horse. It is this monster stride with its driving
propulsion that creates a feeling of acceleration and gliding across the
ground.
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The
Tennessee Walking horse was bred to carry this gait with fluidity and lightness,
and by keeping all energy forward moving, they are able maintain the running
walk to cover great distances.
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Because
it is still a walking gait, the distinctive headnod should always
remain evident, even though it will become a bit more shallow at the increased
tempo.
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Like the
flatwalk, the running walk should remain a relaxed and easy gait for both horse
and rider.
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Go Here to read the complete
article: "Understanding the Runwalk"
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