I went to the boarding barn today--tacked up Gat for a ride...she hasn't been ridden much this summer because we've been living at the cottage.
How could I reduce Gat's big belly? Gat gets 2 flakes of hay a day, a little cup of grain and grazing in a poor pasture. I know right now she needs exercise but even with regular riding she still has a belly--so, is it an age thing? She's 18. I rode with a sidepull I bought from Crit Taylor (the same everyone is talking about) and my Sensation Dressage using the hard-use set up and my EZ rides. (I think when I get my next Sensation I'll get shorter flaps--my EZ rides are not far below the edge of the flap.) Gat is very responsive to the sidepull--in fact I didn't use much if any contact--I direct her with my body and legs so I never ride her with a bit, although Alex does when she's in lessons. Today instead of riding in the arena we strolled around each of the pastures since the horses were all inside--such a beautiful day to ride, I couldn't help but dream about the new house we're bidding on. The trails there are much more interesting than riding in arenas -- I know we'll have to get another Icelandic for my husband, one calm like Gat since he's a beginner, and maybe one for my youngest daughter... LOL -- I should stop dreaming and wait to see if we get the house! V
