Hi Judy, >>>Anyone know if there are icelandic-style trainers that train for natural gait?
I don't consider myself an Icelandic-style trainer because we start our horses as we would any breed of horse and did so long before getting into Icelandics. Different movement exercises, leading through ground pole configurations, tires and over boards, neck line and ground driving, saddle pad falling off, ground riding, mounting bareback (at least that is what I like to do - Christine generally starts with a treeless saddle). Standing to mount is most important, being relaxed standing at the mounting block. Often being lead the first time at least, teaching them to stop, turn, go forward at whatever gait is offered. Riding in the ring and then on the trail - no attention is paid to gait other than noticing what they are choosing in the beginning. I'm off to England for three weeks leaving tonight. Robyn Icelandic Horse Farm Robyn Hood & Phil Pretty Vernon BC Canada www.icefarm.com
