Own a gaited horse and can’t quite get the beat? Try counting with the hoofbeats to get the rhythm. You can always take a metronome out with you and once you get the beat, memorize your horse’s speed.
It is much easier to learn this by first getting used to the walk. Sounds elementary, I know, but just try relaxing, walking and feeling each hoof as it hits the ground and the rhythm your body makes as your horse moves along slowly. Once you get used to this and are able to feel it with your eyes closed (by the way, it is best to have a handler and to have your horse on a longe line for this one) move your horse up into a gait.
Count the faster rhythm and work to keep him/her there. Gentle pressure on the sides will ask your horse to move up into a faster gait and very gentle pressure on the reins will tell him/her to stay there. Practice using these aids together in a ring until you are confident enough to do this on a trail with distractions. Remember, it’s like dancing. Just stay in rhythm with your partner. Simple.
Go out, relax and have a good ride!