By Jennifer Klitzke

Classical French Dressage Master Philippe Karl believes that the upper level dressage movements like piaffe are not just for the talented horses. Average horses can learn them, too. (And so can naturally gaited horses!)

Piaffe for the Naturally Gaited Horse

Is it possible for the naturally gaited horse, particularily the naturally gaited Tennessee walking horse to learn advanced dressage movements like piaffe? Why not.

For the last few years I’ve been studying the work of Classical French Dressage Master Philippe Karl who believes that upper level dressage movements aren’t just for the talented horses. Average horses can learn them, too.

In addition, I have studied the book Another Horsemanship by the late Classical French Dressage Master Jean-Claude Racinet and the DVD Riding in Lightness created by his student Lisa Maxwell who is doing a fine job carrying on his legacy.

Together these teachings taught me the benefits of the counted walk and its impact on balance, softness, and engagement and empowered me to apply them to the naturally gaited horses I ride.

The photo above is me and Makana, my 14-year-old naturally gaited Tennessee walking horse who I ride barefoot and in a mild fulmer snaffle bit. We began exploring the counted walk a couple years ago and are now learning steps of piaffe coming from relaxed  engagement. It’s a dream come true to be learning piaffe and I never imaged that I’d be learning it on a horse that’s naturally gaited!

Stay connected by subscribing to the Naturally Gaited youtube channel and join our community on facebook.com/naturallygaited.