Learn how to draw a running horse by starting with simple shapes and gradually refining the body, legs, and flowing motion.

Step 1:

Mark the picture’s width and height, draw two ovals for the running horse’s head and body, and add a center line on its head.

Short tip: Keep the ovals light and loose so adjustments are easy later.

Step 2:

Draw the running horse’s body and neck, then add a smooth guideline for its tail.

Short tip: Use long, flowing lines to show movement and speed.

Step 3:

Add guidelines to show where the running horse’s legs, mouth, and ears will go.

Short tip: Make sure the leg guidelines angle forward and backward to suggest motion.

Step 4:

Sketch the running horse’s legs, hooves, ears, and nose.

Short tip: Keep the leg shapes simple and slightly bent for a natural running pose.

Step 5:

Draw the running horse’s eye, tail, and mane, and add details to its ears and joints.

Short tip: Let the mane and tail flow backward to emphasize speed.

Step 6:

Add the horse’s nostril and carefully refine the whole figure with more details.

Short tip: Smooth transitions between muscles help the body look strong and realistic.

Step 7:

Outline the running horse with thick and thin dark lines, add more details and the ground, then erase all the guidelines.

Short tip: Use thicker lines on the outer edges and thinner lines for inner details.