Riding Gaited Horses Is an Art—Not a Shortcut
Gaited horses are born with the ability to perform smooth, intermediate gaits—but helping them do so correctly under saddle requires more than genetics. It takes feel, timing, and a solid understanding of biomechanics.
The saddle rack (also called the saddle gait) is a smooth, four-beat gait with no suspension. It doesn’t require a head nod, though some horses may have one naturally. When trained and conditioned correctly, this gait is easy on both the horse and rider.
Unfortunately, many riders are still taught outdated show ring habits that do more harm than good.
You Don’t Need Harsh Equipment to Get a Gait
Let’s debunk some common myths:
You don’t need a special “gaited horse” bit.
You don’t need to crank your horse’s head up.
You don’t need to lean back and ride with a heavy seat.
You don’t need to sacrifice your horse’s comfort for movement.
A well-conditioned gaited horse can perform a beautiful, soft saddle rack:
On a loose rein
In a simple snaffle, bitless, or even bridleless
With a neutral rider seat and light hands
Why Most Gaited Bits Are a Biomechanical Mismatch
Many of the severe curb bits marketed as “gaited horse” bits are rooted in tradition—not science. These devices often aim to produce a specific look in the show ring, not healthy movement.
If your horse can only gait with:
A twisted-wire curb
Their nose in the air
A hollow back
And zero engagement…
Then they’re not gaiting correctly—they’re compensating.
What a Biomechanically Correct Gait Looks Like
A correct gait comes from the inside out, not from forced frames or leverage bits. Here’s what to look for:
Engagement from the hindquarters
Relaxation through the topline
Freedom in the ribcage
Lightness and mobility in the shoulders
A rider who follows the motion—not restricts it
Ride With Knowledge, Not Just Tradition
Gaited horses deserve better than gimmicks. They deserve riders who care about:
Soundness
Longevity
Comfort
Connection
Let’s leave behind outdated methods and embrace a biomechanics-based approach that honors the horse’s body and movement.
Want to Learn More?
Explore my virtual courses and resources:
Bit Fitting Burning Questions Webinar
Bit Fitting 101 Course
