The maximum running speed of the horse depends on many factors, including its breed, height, weight and, of course, the allure.

Slow motion


Gait is a term that came into Russian language from French; literally translated, it means "walk". Currently, in the Russian language this word is mostly used to denote the type of stroke the horse, which can be different in speed and other parameters.

So, it is customary to distinguish three main types of gait. The first of them, the slow step. By moving in this way, the horse usually develops a speed of from 3.5 to 7 miles per hour. However, this type of gait is most natural for the horse, so step it can quite easily go several hours. In addition, this type of turn it comes under load, for example when pulling a heavy load.

Fast movement


The lynx is a more rapid rate of movement of the horse: its speed of movement in this case may be 12 or 13 miles per hour. However, the physical ability of the horse usually allow you to move at this rate for a limited time. The horse, not compelled by man, will from time to time to move from trot to step and after a rest to return to the trot. Depending on the physical condition of the horse and its breed and the duration trot may be 10-20 minutes, and follow-up duration of the motion step - 5-10 minutes.

At the trot the horse can perform some amount of work, that is, to carry cargo, in this case, however, there are some limitations: so, it is recommended to let the horse trot only in the case that the load weight does not exceed 7-8% of its own weight.

The highest speed a horse develops when running at a gallop. Experts identify several basic types that allure. However, even the slowest canter is characterized by a speed of about 20-30 kilometers per hour, and the maximum rate of movement of the horse at the gallop can reach 70 kilometers per hour or more.

However, it is clear that the horse can not be a long time to move at this pace. In nature, the horse moves with such speed only in exceptional cases, for example when threats to life. So in natural mode, the distance traversed, such a high speed, typically less than 1 kilometer. However, race horses, trained to participate in the race, and can move at a speed fast gallop for 15-20 minutes.