Writing in clear language, Sylvia Loch gives a comprehensive approach to working with a horse to achieve maximum trraining for both rider and horse. From physiology to specific exercises and movements, this guide is an incomparable resource.

Author discusses various ways to train horses in a step-by-step program.

Within these pages lies an ambitious study of the interplay of mechanisms put in motion when man and horse meet, communicate, and ultimately become one. Dominique Barbier and Dr. Maria Katsamanis examine how “lightness” is generated, using the simple and elegant basics of the universe—atoms and molecules—which exist all around us. Scientific findings and theoretical underpinnings allow us to better understand how lightness with a horse occurs—and how to harness it. Discover practical guideposts for the mechanics of “riding in lightness,” including: • Five common misconceptions about riding and horses • Seven keys to meeting the challenges we so often face when working with horses • Four elements necessary to ensuring the horse’s comfort and willingness to join us in “the dance”

The story of Paul Belasik's apprenticeship: 13 years spent studying centuries of literature and observing the masters. A wise, honest, and inspiring book.

"This book explains the essence, the ultimate goal of riding; the feeling of harmony, elegance and lightness all of us riders are looking for and sometimes find glimpses of. This book presents you with some of my experience, hands-on exercises and tips on how to use your body and mind to find harmony and lightness with your horse." -Ylvie Fros

A biomechanical problem-solving approach to training challenges. Every action of rider has an impact on the health and well-being of the horse either positive or negative, looseness or tension. But what are the causes? The Science and Art of Riding with Lightness reveals the interplay between the biomechanics of the horse and the dressage exercises in a coherent manner. It will become clear which training mistakes cause which problems in the horse's way of going and which training and the physical-therapeutic measures that can be taken to correct problems. With this knowledge, the vet can assess and treat problems in an appropriate manner and advise the rider more fittingly with regard to the training of the horse. Likewise, the dedicated rider can find valuable supportive suggestions and ideas in the training and correction of his horse, from Dr. Stodulka's unique gift of being both a master rider, and equine vet well verse in allopathic medicine and alternative therapies. With this knowledge, the veterinarian will be able to assess training-induced disorders and to recommend better and more successful therapies and advise the rider with a view to training optimization. Small errors often have huge consequences. Only the rider who knows what they are can rectify them.

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.

Dressage is often seen as the most formal and controlled of the equine sports, following an ancient, standardized training progression. For philosopher and dressage instructor Dr. Sherry Ackerman, dressage is much more. It — along with riding in general — can be a transformational art and an avenue for reflection, exploration, and self-knowledge through which a rider can experience liberation from the individual, egoistic self. This second, revised edition of Dressage in the Fourth Dimension is a pioneer work in awakening “dressage consciousness.” Drawing on such diverse sources as sacred geometry, ancient Western and Eastern philosophies, and esoteric spirituality, Ackerman seeks to heal humanity’s alienation from nature through riding. She points us toward the liberation from societal conditioning and normative thinking, and, ultimately, from our own egos. Her concept of the fourth dimension requires us to leave the analytic, objective mind behind and enter into the mystery of inspiration. A short, unique, thought-provoking work that has enjoyed a word-of-mouth reputation among horse people for years, Dressage in the Fourth Dimension will challenge riders’ assumptions about their horses and themselves.

The equestrian pursuit known as Cowboy Dressage melds the best of Western riding traditions and classical dressage in the pursuit of a harmonious relationship with a horse. Intended to be accessible to all, Cowboy Dressage is open to all breeds and all levels of riders; there isn’t a set frame for overall look, head carriage, or action. Lifelong horsewoman Jessica Black traces the evolution of Cowboy Dressage back to its roots, sharing the story of Eitan and Debbie Beth-Halachmy and their phenomenal Morgan horses that have served as the movement’s ambassadors. Black then expertly weaves Eitan Beth-Halachmy's experience and expertise into an engaging and articulate explanation of the philosophy of Cowboy Dressage; defines the expectations of the rider; describes what a participant needs in terms of equipment; and explores how the most important element—the horse—should be prepared. A wonderful and thorough section on groundwork, as well as specific training advice for achieving engagement, regulating the gaits, smoothing transitions, and balancing bend and straightness, get the reader started with a solid foundation. Specific descriptions of the Cowboy Dressage tests are provided, with additional tools for those interested in competition, including rules, divisions, and how to execute and judge tests.