Instructions
Observe how the Tennessee walking horse moves its lower legs in only a lateral forward direction during its normal or "flat walk." Unique to the Tennessee walker is the way the horse over-strides when walking, while bobbing its head to the tempo of its feet. During the flat walk, none of the horse's feet hit the ground at the same time, but come down at separate and even intervals with the horse's rear foot stepping just forward of the spot vacated by the front hoof. When performing the flat walk the Tennessee walker is capable of reaching speeds up to eight miles per hour, over level terrain.
Notice the characteristics of the flat walk, but at a faster pace. The "running walk," for which the Tennessee walker is most noted, is the horse's natural gait inherent to the bred. The Tennessee walking horse can travel up to 20 miles per hour at a running walk while giving the rider a practically "bounce-less" ride. Across several variations, the running walk is identified by the way the horse's hind hoof lands much further in front of the track of the front hoof than during the flat walk -- often by as much as 18 inches. As with the flat walk, the Tennessee walker will continue to noticeably bob its head during the fast walk.
Watch the horse's line of travel when at a canter. Often confused with the gallop, the canter is a graceful and loping gait when compared with the all-out run of a thoroughbred on a racetrack. Performed in the same three-step beat as other horses, where two of the horse's hooves hit the ground at the same time, the Tennessee walking horse canters at a more relaxed and effortless pace than do other breeds. When cantering the Tennessee walker has a pronounced quartering or diagonal movement, almost as if the horse is moving sideways, but in a straight line.
How to Recognize the Tennessee Walking Horse Gaits
Originally bred as an all-purpose horse, the Tennessee walking horse's lineage includes Morgan, Narragansett and thoroughbred breeds. Having a naturally smooth and steady step, two of the "Tennessee Walker's" three main gaits are distinct and readily recognizable from those of other horses. Commonly ridden with both English and western tack, the Tennessee's dependability and gentle nature make the breed equally suited for both the novice rider or experienced equestrian in the ring or on the trail.