A fantastically detailed and uniquely organized dressage reference for the rider. Discover the what, the how, and–most importantly–the why of more than 100 dressage movements. Color photographs of riders of various levels and on different breeds of horse show how each movement should look when ridden correctly. Each movement is clearly defined. Explanations include common mistakes and how to avoid them. Readers find out the benefits of each exercise and how it contributes to the “bigger picture” of the dressage training scale. “This book appealed to me,” says gold-medal-winning Olympian Isabell Werth. “Especially important is the emphasis on the meaning of the individual dressage movements within the overall context of a horse’s training. Only the rider who understands why the movements are important and what their purposes are can build a dressage horse systematically. This applies to both the development of the horse's muscles and the development of his mind.” Throughout, emphasis is placed on the horse as an individual and how it is the rider's responsibility to learn to customize movements and lessons to benefit any horse, with his particular physical and psychological characteristics in mind. Practical and easy-to-follow, this valuable resource provides explanations in seconds that will last a lifetime of rides.

Originally published by Charles Scribner's Sons, 1931.

"First published in two volumes: Cross-train your horse and More cross-training in 1998"--T.p. verso.

Progressive School Exercises provides a collection of exercises, on the flat and over fences, specifically designed for use in training more experienced riders and horses, whether in groups or as individuals, or schooling at home. Specially chosen ridden exercises aim to improve: In the horse - rhythm, impulsion, balance, elasticity, straightness, athleticism, suppleness, obedience and self-carriage and in the rider - balance, effectiveness, accuracy, co-ordination, forward planning and the ability to see a stride when jumping.

The director of the riding program at Sweet Briar College for more than 30 years, Cronin is a well-known and highly respected trainer and riding instructor. Here he presents a clear and practical guide to getting the most out of a horse in a humane and sensitive way.

This book is my husband's life's work, which is dedicated to the well-being of horses, something I have always supported. We founded the "Friends Association for Classical Dressage Training" in 1977, so that classical equitation the way it was taught at the world-famous Cavalry School of Hannover didn't disappear. In particular, I would like to emphasize his work with poorly trained horses. Thanks to his comprehensive expertise and riding ability, he was always able to correct them and make them into rideable mounts. My husband's tireless energy in the training of horse and rider, as well as his sense of duty to "the cause" he had chosen to serve, were the main contributing factors to the writing of this book, especially after his expert articles "Classical Dressage Training in Practice" had gained nation-wide attention in Germany.

Out of print for more than 20 years, this classic book on equitation introduces and explains the art of riding. Updated with all new color photography of contemporary riders and horses, it includes details on training the rider, schooling the horse, cross-country riding, dressage exercises, and jumping techniques. It expertly provides a wealth of practical knowledge and experience and concisely lays down rules and guidelines that are as applicable today as when the book was written more than 70 years ago. Beginners and experts alike will find the instructions easy to follow and will benefit from the essential theoretical background provided here but so often overlooked in modern riding.

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.

First published in 1733 as Ecole de Cavalerie, this book is considered as the beginning of modern equitation. Here, for the first time, is the complete work.