There should be a moment of suspension ....most of these horses are doing what is essentially a 2 beat walk, which is a distortion of the gait at best, and pathological at worst.
walking in the front trotting in the back, UGLY and not correct :The AQHA rulebook describes the western pleasure jog as "a smooth, ground-covering, two-beat diagonal gait." ( Credit: Journal)
It isn't pretty--the natural beauty of the horse is ruined in western pleasure horses. Find something like Working Equitation, or team penning--something that is fun for the horse, and challenges them, builds their athletic abilities and forms a team with you--go enjoy your horse, don't stifle and inhibit their beautiful movement!
