Miguel Tavora emphasizes that through correct, gradual, progressive, logical and systematic gymnastic work, we develop the physical and mental abilities of the horse, so he will find all the activities he is asked easy to perform, and will do it looking as if it was by his own will.

"This book is a must have . . . it really inspires you to greater things and encourages you to believe that anything is possible if you follow the book step-by-step!" —www.horsecity.co.uk

In this beautifully written and richly illustrated book, Charles de Kunffy advocates for uncompromising devotion to the well-being of horses. Riding must be restorative and therapeutic prior to schooling horses to gymnastic excellence.

Training Strategies for Dressage Riders is a unique guide to the art and technique of dressage, written by one of the most renowned equestrian trainers in the world today. It offers a complete training system for both horse and rider, paying special attention to how a rider s actions can influence a mount. The book provides practical, in-the-saddle advice on a wide range of dressage topics, including: * The art of classical equitation * The development of the rider s seat and aids * Developing the basic gaits * Gymnastic improvement * Horse insubordination * Clinics and competitions judging Whether you want to prepare for dressage competition or simply improve your riding skills, this is a matchless guide.

Analyzed by an expert and accompanied by many practical examples, the ancient secrets of classical riding are presented here in a modern way Classical riding, in essence, is correct riding. It is how one should ride every time they get on a horse, and includes not just knowing how to ride, but all around knowledge of the horse as a species. Here, a thorough examination of classical riding is presented through accessible modern day examples. It also includes almost forgotten, yet essential, riding methods--such as the Bugeltritt (the position of the rider's foot in the stirrup) or ridden work with a cavesson. Other concepts include the aims of dressage; the system's essential gymnastic building blocks; breaking down blockades; essential riding skills such as sitting, feeling, and thinking; and the network of aids.

Maybe the best way to introduce this book to our audience is to quote Max Gahwyler when he read the book when it was in manuscript form: "You must publish this. It is superb!" We agree this is, truly, one of, if not the clearest, most readable books on training dressage ever written. It's just delightful! As Egon von Neindorf, a recognized master himself, says in the Foreword, "If you are not fortunate enough to be taught by Walter Zettl personally, he gives you in this book a very valuable guide to the art of classical riding. In clearly worked out and easy to understand chapters, he takes you through each step of the training stages, discusses problems that occur, and assists with competent, sensible corrections, from Beginner to becoming a Master. With Walter Zettl's guidance, it is made possible."

Just as small streams make big rivers, Divide and Conquer Book 1 explains a myriad of details on how to divide the horses body parts. Divide and Conquer Book 2 regroups these details to show how to accomplish all of the upper level movements and provides several techniques designed to educate riders to achieve their short and long term goals. In a clear and simple method, François Lemaire de Ruffieu describes all the longitudinal and lateral movements, flying changes of lead at close intervals, canter pirouette, piaffe and passage, to mention only a few.All techniques for the upper level movements are natural to the horse and are simultaneously, a sound foundation of training for any level and any discipline.Dressage is an Art and, as in any art, it can be viewed in many different ways. History shows that some extraordinary riding masters were radically different in their theories: Riders physical appearance and differences in horse breeding have influenced riding masters leaving us a rich history of techniques to educate our horses properly. Dressage tends to follow fashion. Nevertheless, the goals of dressage have always remained the same: render the horse agreeable, easy to ride, well-balanced, straight and responding instantaneously to the slightest rider's demands. Dressage is a school of obedience as well as a school of thoughts.

Miguel de Lancastre e Tavora was a master rider, trainer, and instructor. His genuine love and care for the well-being of horses comes through on every page of his magnum opus: Dressage Principles and Techniques. His kind, calm, and methodical approach is laid out in a progressive sequence that adheres strictly to the principles of the FEI."In this book, I will explain the principles which are the objectives of equitation.... Correct principles are governed by nature and logic and proven through practice. I show how to use the aids and gymnastic exercises to achieve goals. Objectivity, simplicity and clarity of all explanations is my first priority. "My philosophy is that the horse's physical and mental development, obtained through gradual, progressive, logical, and systematic gymnastic work, he will do all work with ease because he feels comfortable. He will look as if he is acting on his own accord, and enjoying it." - Miguel Tavora

Widely known for her innovative teaching philosophy stressing body awareness, the value of "soft eyes," proper breathing, centering, and balance, Sally Swift has been a pioneering riding instructor for half a century. In book form for the first time, her methods enable horse and rider to achieve harmony, working together naturally, without pain. Unlike traditional teachers, Sally Swift does not believe in forced training techniques that cause stiff bodies and tense riding. Instead, through the use of vivid, unusual, and highly creative images that transcend mechanics ("Pretend you're a spruce tree; the roots grow down from your center as the trunk grows up"), plus a thorough knowledge of human and equine anatomy, this wise and inspiring teacher enables the conscientious equestrian to reassess habitual responses, in order to ride in natural positions, break through frustrating plateaus, and achieve ever-rising goals with comfort, vitality, and precision. Precise illustrations and photographs never before used in riding books explain anatomy and image work to give mind and body new and relaxed approaches to the inner process of riding. Centered Riding is for those with little experience all the way up to world class.

This popular handbook provides a complete course for horse and rider using the German training systems, which are applauded the world over as being clear, logical and thorough and which have consistently produced international champions for decades. Based on the principles of classical horsemanship, the contents include basic exercises and tips for riding in competitions.