In a perfect jog, a front hoof and diagonal hind hoof hit the ground at exactly the same time, the horse’s topline is level, the horse has a relaxed expression, and his rhythm is consistent. This is the jog the judges want to see, says top judge and trainer Kitty Bowland.

When your horse’s jog is easy and comfortable, his rhythm is consistent, and neither of you are working hard to maintain the flow, then you’re “rocking the jog.” Congratulations!

The reality for most of us, however, is that achieving a show-worthy jog means lots and lots of hard work. Perhaps the horse you’re riding doesn’t have an even, balanced motion or level topline. Perhaps he doesn’t even have a true two-beat gait and appears to be shuffling rather than jogging. What can you do?

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