How do I get my Gaited Horse to Step Higher?
Gaited horses have a unique four-beat gait that is smoother than the traditional trot. This gait is a pleasure to ride, but sometimes you may wish for your horse to step higher. If you want your horse to lift its feet higher, there are some specific things you can do to help.
Ride at a Faster Pace
One of the easiest ways to get your horse to step higher is to ride at a faster pace. Gaited horses are less comfortable at slower paces, so a quicker tempo will help them to lift their feet higher. Try to vary the pace of your ride, alternating between a faster and slower pace. This will help your horse to stay engaged and will encourage them to lift their feet higher.
Focus on Flexibility
Flexibility is important for any horse, and it is especially important for a gaited horse. A horse that is flexible will be able to lift its feet higher, so it is important to focus on improving your horse’s flexibility. This can be done through stretches and other exercises that focus on stretching the horse’s muscles and joints.
Introduce Hills
Hills can be a great way to encourage your horse to step higher. If you are riding on flat terrain, your horse may not feel the need to lift its feet as high. By introducing hills into your rides, you can help your horse to get used to lifting its feet higher. Start with small hills, and gradually increase the size of the hills as your horse becomes more comfortable.
Ride with a Balanced Seat
Your riding position can have a big impact on your horse’s gait. If you are leaning forward or sitting too far back, your horse may not lift its feet as high. Make sure that your seat is balanced and that you are not leaning too far in either direction. This will help your horse to maintain a higher step.
Relax the Rein Contact
Rein contact is important for gaited horses, but it is important to avoid pulling on the reins. If your horse feels like it is being pulled, it may resist and not lift its feet as high. Relax the contact on the reins and focus on maintaining a steady contact. This will help your horse to maintain a higher step.
Incorporate Lateral Movements
Lateral movements can help to engage your horse and encourage it to step higher. Incorporate lateral movements such as shoulder-in, leg yield, and half pass into your rides. This will help your horse to stay engaged and will help to encourage it to lift its feet higher.
Focus on Balance and Rhythm
Balance and rhythm are important for any horse, but they are especially important for gaited horses. Make sure that your horse is in balance and that its rhythm is consistent. This will help your horse to maintain a higher step.
Add Variety to Your Rides
Gaited horses can get bored easily, so it is important to add variety to your rides. Try different speeds and directions, and incorporate different gaits into your rides. This will help to keep your horse engaged and will encourage it to lift its feet higher.
Train with an Experienced Trainer
If you are having trouble getting your horse to step higher, it may be a good idea to work with an experienced trainer. A trainer can help you to develop an effective training program that is tailored to your horse’s needs. They can also give you advice on how to handle your horse and how to get the best results.
Be Patient
Getting your horse to step higher can take some time and patience. Try to stay positive and be patient with your horse. Remember that you will need to practice and work at it for a while before you start to see results.
Gaited horses can be a pleasure to ride, but sometimes you may wish for your horse to step higher. If you want your horse to lift its feet higher, there are some specific things you can do to help. Ride at a faster pace, focus on flexibility, introduce hills, ride with a balanced seat, relax the rein contact, incorporate lateral movements, focus on balance and rhythm, add variety to your rides, train with an experienced trainer, and be patient. With some time and patience, you can help your horse to step higher and give you an enjoyable ride.