The gallop is the fastest gait of the horse, averaging about 40 to 48 kilometres per hour (25 to 30 mph), and in the wild is used when the animal needs to flee from predators or simply cover short distances quickly.

What is special about a gallop?

The gallop is an asymmetrical high speed four beat gait. This gait is thrilling for the rider and during the suspension phase when all feet are off the ground it feels like flying. In the gallop, the basic canter movement is sped up so that all four feet are off the ground for a suspended moment.

Is galloping good for horses?

Going to the gallops not only builds your horse's fitness, it can be a real test of rider fitness and strength, too. To adopt a galloping position, your stirrups need to be short enough for you to be able to stand up and off your horse's back, with your hands low and on his neck.