But being supple is the key to doing the gaits "harmoniously", without going to the trot or hard pace.
I think you're right on this Lynn, and I wonder if part of the reason some Icelandics aren't taught suppling exercises is because they are so easy. I would never start a TB and skip the steps (including suppling) that I have skipped with Tosca. She had a few rides in the arena and then went out on trail like she'd been a trail horse her entire life. I still haven't taken her back to do flat work, although I know I should. She's just doing so well. She had a week off because of first the endurance ride and then nasty weather. I was laughing out loud riding her yesterday. It was quite cool (sleeting, actually) and she was so fresh. She was cantering along beside my friend's big trotting horse and acting like she was loving every step. Nancy
