Gaits

A gait is the pattern of limb movements used to move from one place to another. It describes how joints, muscles, and tendons coordinate to produce rhythm, footfalls, and direction. Gaits are influenced by anatomy, speed, terrain, and energy considerations, and they can vary across species and contexts.

In humans, common gaits include walking, running, and sprinting. Walking involves continuous ground contact with at least one foot on the ground at all times and a relatively longer double-support phase. Running introduces a flight phase when all feet are off the ground, and speed is determined by stride length and cadence. Variations exist between leisurely walking, jogging, and fast running.

Among quadrupeds, several gaits are recognized. The walk is a four-beat, sequential pattern with all limbs moving in a regular cycle. The trot is a two-beat gait in which diagonal pairs of legs move together. The pace is a lateral two-beat gait in which the legs on the same side move in a coordinated pattern. The canter is a three-beat gait with a leading leg followed by the other legs, and the gallop is a fast four-beat gait often accompanied by a suspension phase. Some species and breeds employ ambling or pacing gaits, which are smooth four-beat patterns with different limb sequencing.

Biomechanical analysis of gait uses measures such as stride length, cadence (steps per minute), duty factor (the proportion of cycle a foot is on the ground), and limb phase relationships. Central pattern generators in the nervous system, along with musculoskeletal properties, help produce and regulate rhythmic locomotion.

Applications of gait study include sports science, veterinary medicine, rehabilitation, and the design of legged robots, where gait selection affects efficiency, stability, and adaptability.