What gaits are required in a pleasure driving class?

Most pleasure driving classes require three gaits: the walk, the working trot, and the strong trot. The walk should be flat-footed, relaxed, and forward with a clear four-beat rhythm. Jigging or tension at the walk is a significant fault. The working trot is the foundation gait of the class and where much of the judging impression is formed. It should be balanced, rhythmic, and ground-covering at a moderate pace. The horse should appear comfortable and easy to manage at this speed. The strong trot asks for more pace and stride length, but it is not a racing trot — it should be an energetic, extended version of the same balanced movement shown at the working trot. Horses that rush and lose rhythm at the strong trot, or break gait entirely, are penalized. Some classes also ask horses to halt and stand quietly, which tests obedience and temperament directly. Transitions between gaits should be smooth and prompt, executed off light rein aids without resistance or delay. Throughout all gaits, consistency of pace and rhythm is as important as the quality of movement itself.