This book contains classic material dating back to the 1900s and before. The content has been carefully selected for its interest and relevance to a modern audience.

Originally published in France 1854 then translated into English in 1919 by John Swire. The author's methods are simple and practical. He treats a horse like a human being he maintains that the rider can only influence his mount by placing it in such a position that the movement desired is the only possible one, and then stimulating it the placing being made easy by specially graduated exercises which supple the horse's will as well as his muscles. Contents Include: New method of giving th...

The author's introduction to his "Method of Horsemanship" is omitted in this edition, because containing much that would be uninteresting to the American reader. It mentions the great difficulties he had in attracting the attention of the public to his system, and the complete success with which it was crowned when once this attention was attracted. One paragraph from it, which contains the principle upon which his whole method is founded, is here given: "However favored by nature the hors...

Dressage is the ultimate achievement of oneness between horse and rider. Featuring a full arena diagram and step-by-step instructions for each exercise, this sturdy book is designed to allow the rider to hang it on a hook and refer to it from the saddle. You'll learn how to improve your riding position; master looseness, balance, and suspension; and perfect flying changes as you work toward dressage success.

Progressive schooling exercises to improve suppleness, balance, strength and agility, and to enhance the performance of horse and rider.

Kottas on Dressage is a distillation of the practice and philosophy of one of the most highly regarded international trainers of the current era. Having stressed the need for the rider to establish correct posture and a thorough understanding of the aids before attempting to train the horse, the book highlights the value of establishing rapport with the horse and enhancing his mental responses and developing his physique with groundwork before progressing to work under saddle. The text the...

As an instructor it takes time to develop a repertoire of exercises to suit all ages and abilities. This book has the answer: it provides a wide range of ideas with notes on how these can be adapted and developed for different levels, from beginner to advanced, whether children or adults, along with teaching tips for a professional delivery.

Originally published in 1966, this classic book on horsemanship is still today recognized as the essential handbook for riders of every skill level.Written by Gordon Wright, acknowledged to be the founding father of American horsemanship, this book every aspect of the fundamentals of riding, including chapters devoted to:Horse anatomyTips on groomingTrotting, galloping, and canteringJumpingCaring for a horse dur...

Gustav Steinbrecht's Gymnasium of the Horse is one of the great milestones of equestrian literature, alongside Xenophon, de Pluvinel, Newcastle, and de la Guérinière. It forms a connection and transition between two eras.On one hand, it is the culmination of the equestrian literature of the late 18th century and 19th century that, under the influence of the Industrial Revolution, tried to explain equine biomechanics by comparing the body to a mechanical device.On t...

For over a quarter of a century, Colonel Alois Podhajsky was the Director of the Spanish Riding School in Vienna, home of the famous white Lipizzaner stallions whose remarkable performances have thrilled audiences throughout the world. Now for the first time, Col. Podhajsky has set forth explicitly and in practical, instructive fashion the step-by-step methods of training both horse and rider that are used at the School and that are the applicable foundations of all good horsemanship, for ...

Inspired by the time-honoured traditions of the Classical World, Sylvia's desire to protect the horse is reflected in her training methods, which concentrate on a balanced seat and quiet aiding. She abhors the use of force and gadgetry in the schooling of horses and believes that Classical riding is the best way forward for all the disciplines. The Languages of the Aids is not as well understood today as it should be and it seems that it is frequently forgotten or fragmented, and it will b...

This clearly illustrated manual aims to help riders teach their horses how to jump in the most efficient and correct way possible. This book also offers problem-solving tips for retraining old horses who have developed bad habits.