What is "pacing" in harness racing?

Pacing refers to a specific gait in harness racing where the horse moves its legs on the same side simultaneously, alternating between the front and back legs on that side. This is in contrast to trotting, where the horse moves its diagonal legs together (the front left with the back right and the front right with the back left). Pacing is a fundamental aspect of harness racing, as it directly affects a horse's speed and efficiency on the track. Since harness races typically feature standardbred horses, they are naturally adept at pacing, which contributes to their competitive advantage. Understanding pacing is essential for trainers and owners as it impacts training techniques, race strategies, and overall performance.