7: Meet Guðmar - Taking Icelandic Horses Worldwide: Hestaland Treks + Why Trainers Should Travel

In this episode of The Fifth Gait Podcast, we sit down with Gudmar Petursson—renowned Icelandic horse trainer, educator, and founder of Hestaland in West Iceland. Gudmar shares his journey from being a young competitive rider in Iceland to building a career in the United States, where he helped introduce the Icelandic horse to a wider audience. We explore his insights on the differences between U.S. and Icelandic horsemanship, the challenges of promoting a unique breed abroad, and the lessons learned from his legendary stallion. Gudmar also dives into the deeper value of trekking across Iceland—how it transforms riders, strengthens the horse-human connection, and reconnects people with nature. Whether you’re passionate about Icelandic horses, curious about cross-cultural horsemanship, or interested in the future of equestrian practice, this episode offers a rare perspective from one of the most influential voices in the Icelandic horse world.

🎧 Listen now to discover:

The biggest strengths and weaknesses of U.S. vs. Icelandic horsemanship

How Icelandic horses went from “aliens” in America to a recognized breed

The role of trekking in shaping better riders and deeper horse partnerships

Gudmar’s philosophy on horsemanship, tradition, and innovation

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