Training
Strengthening the trot in an Icelandic horse
Strengthening the trot. The plan is to ease my way out onto the dressage arena with my Icelandic horse. The problem is that his weakest gait is the trot. He's a very lively horse who finds it hard to hold the trot when we ride circles and serpentines, among other things. What can I do as a rider to help him in the best way?
Answers from HayHay's experts
Good basic schooling is everything when it comes to building a sound, hard-wearing horse. There are rarely shortcuts, but the good news is that the trot is a very improvable gait. Work on his rideability, and start in walk: make sure he tracks correctly and carries himself well, which means bending correctly through the body, finding a good topline and keeping an even contact forward to the hand. Then develop the same quality in trot.
From the ground, you can do a lot with long reining, strengthening work and cavaletti. These are ideal for building strength and letting the horse find his own balance. 🐴💫
Elise Lindman
Sports Psychologist
