The gait of the Mangalarga Marchador is fast and smooth, with a natural amble known as the Marcha. The feet move alternately lateral and diagonally. When there are more lateral movements in the step, the Marcha is called Marcha Picada (like the sauce). It is often described as a broken pace. Where there are more diagonal movements in the step, the Marcha is called Marcha Batida (ba chee da). It is often described as a broken trot. In recent years, although not yet recognized as a separate and distinct marcha, there has been a third category describing where the movements diagonal and lateral are equal, and it is called Marcha de Centro.
In all of the marcha gaits, due to the moments of triple hoof support, the horse always has contact with the ground avoiding total suspension. Thus, the rider feels secure and comfortable. The marcha can reach speeds of 14-18km per hour without breaking gait.
Which is better? The marcha picada is usually considered the smoothest of the marching gaits. But, the gait you prefer is often a personal choice and may be influenced by the discipline you pursue or the terrain where you ride.
What better way to explain the gaits than to see them in action?
Marcha Batida
Elo Kafe da Nova is an ELITE book stallion, a national champion and a top reproducer in Brasil. Also in the video are some of his get (filho).
National Grand Champion 2005
National Champion Stallion Reproducer 2007-2008
Marcha Picada
NHS Noturno, a herd sire at Haras da Marcha. SIre of Reserve National Champion in Marcha Picada