Which of the following is NOT an artificial gait of a horse?

The gallop is a natural gait of a horse, characterized by a rapid, four-beat movement that is commonly observed in many breeds, especially when they are running freely. This gait typically develops as a horse accelerates and is used in racing and other fast-paced activities. On the other hand, the other choices — rack, running walk, and stepping pace — are considered artificial gaits, meaning they have been developed and refined through breeding and training methods to enhance performance in specific equestrian disciplines or to create distinct movement styles. For example, the rack is a smooth, lateral gait used in certain breeds, while the running walk is known for its fluid and rhythmic movement, often seen in Tennessee Walking Horses. The stepping pace, also a lateral gait, is another example of an artificial gait that some horse breeds are trained to perform. Hence, recognizing the gallop as a natural and fundamental movement highlights why it does not belong in the category of artificial gaits.