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Equine Sciences Extension
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Horse Locomotion - Trot
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Characteristics
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One diagonal pair of legs are raised
before other pair touches ground --suspension
of all feet. Period of suspension -- longest at
the extended trot. Leg sequence unchanged at ordinary,
collected, or extended trot. Average speed 7-10
mph Extended 10-30 mph. Believed to be a dominant
genetic trait over pacing. Is a natural gait.
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Foot sequence =
a) left front/right hind (left diagonal) -- 1st beat
b) right front/left hind (right diagonal) -- 2nd beat
Marker 1 = A 2-beat, diagonal gait
Marker 2 = Diagonal base of support
Extremes =
- Standardbred - has rapid, long round-covering extended
trot; used for harness racing; have a much longer
period of suspension.
- Hackney - shorter stride; collected, animated trot;
higher action and greater flexion of joints with no
period of suspension.
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