töltjében

Töltjében is a term used in Icelandic horsemanship to describe a specific gait. It is one of the five gaits of the Icelandic horse, alongside the walk, trot, canter, and the famous tölt. The tölt is a four-beat lateral ambling gait that is known for its smoothness and comfort for the rider. It is often described as a very even and rhythmic gait, where one foot is always on the ground, providing a stable and effortless ride.

This gait allows the horse to travel at considerable speed while maintaining a comfortable rhythm for the rider. Unlike the trot, where diagonal pairs of legs move together, in the tölt, the leg pairs move laterally. This means the left hind leg moves with the left front leg, and the right hind leg moves with the right front leg. This lateral movement contributes to the unique feel and efficiency of the tölt.

The tölt is a natural gait for Icelandic horses, and many are trained to perform it from a young age. Riders often learn to cue the tölt by using subtle aids with their legs and seat. The ability to perform a well-executed tölt is a highly valued characteristic in Icelandic horses and is often showcased in competitions and demonstrations of Icelandic horsemanship. It is a testament to the breed's unique physiology and the skilled training methods employed by riders and breeders.