>From WikiHow: How to Ride an Icelandic Horse
Learn how to master an ancient,tough and loving breed of horse. Icelandic horses are a breed that are 1 in a million. Steps 1. Get the right gear. Icelandics need a special saddle and a bridle which consists of a soft bit, reins and a nose band. 2. Mount from either side. You mount just the same as any other horse. 3. Keep the reins loose. Icelandics have relatively soft mouths and are more voice responsive anyway. 4. In trot, relax and sit, and push your weight down in the stirrups so that you don't bounce as much. 5. In canter and gallop, most Icelandics will go straight from a halt to the required gait, so grab mane! Tips [] The trick in canter is to let the horse do the work and stand up a little, as if you were in gallop, going uphill. [] Try to use your voice at all times instead of kicking and whipping. [] Don't pull on the reins; just say whoah' and lean back. [] To speed up say 'hup hup!' and lean forward, if necessary nudge too. [] Always hold mane in faster gaits, as Icelandics are very fast and take off unexpectedly. Warnings [] Icelandics can be stubborn so if all else fails, getting off and leading the horse works well. ________________________ Judy http://icehorses.net http://clickryder.com
