Quantifying a horse’s stride boils down to a few key metrics: stride length, cadence, and phase timing. Measure the distance from hoof contact to the next contact of the same hoof, then divide by the time between contacts to get speed. Use high‑speed video or inertial sensors to capture phase timing—swing versus stance—and calculate duty factor. Compare those numbers against breed standards or performance goals. It’s all math and a bit of biomechanics; the “perfect” stride is just the one that meets the desired speed, efficiency, and comfort criteria.

You’re right, the numbers give the blueprint but the horse’s own feedback is what turns a calculated stride into a graceful one.