German rider and equine veterinarian Dr. Gerd Heuschmann is well-known in dressage circles—admired for his plain speaking regarding what he deems the incorrect and damaging training methods commonly employed by riders and trainers involved in competition today. Here, he presents an intelligent and thought-provoking exploration of both classical and "modern" training methods, including "hyperflexion" (also known as Rollkur), against a practical backdrop of the horse's basic anatomy and phys...

The Riding Regulation, H. Dv. 12 in its last edition of 1937 is the foundation of German classical horsemanship. Authored by the German cavalry experts and issued by the German army commander-in-chief, Freiherr von Fritsch, these guidelines governed all training of remounts and recruits with the goal of creating sound, able, willing, and obedient military mounts and equally capable riders. As the original source of the renowned Training Scale, the H. Dv. 12 is th...

Would you like to enable your horse to perform and feel better, to overcome old limitations and restrictions and reach its full potential?In this book, Jim Masterson, Equine Massage Therapist for the 2006 and 2008 and 2010 USET Endurance Teams, and for equine clientele competing in FEI World Cup, Pan American and World Games competitions, teaches a unique method of equine bodywork, in which the practitioner recognizes and follows the responses of the horse to touch to release tension in ke...

Discover your full potential as a rider with techniques that enhance balance, harmony, and confidence!Centered Riding is an essential guide for riders of all levels who seek to improve their connection with their horse through mindful and purposeful movements. This transformative book focuses on the mental and physical alignment necessary to ride with ease and precision. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced equestrian, the practical exercises and insights will help you unlock a deep...

In this book, Philippe Karl, one of the most outspoken critics of the modern dressage world, reveals some disturbing facts about the physical, anatomical and mental effects through official dressage guidelines as issued by the German Horse Society (FN) on horses. By comparing these with philosophies of masters of classical riding such as La Gueriniere and Baucher, he shows possible solutions to the challenging situation of modern competitive dressage.

Every equestrian wants to know: what is the difference between the horse that "dances" when you are on him, and the one that doesn't? According to Visconte Simon Cocozza, Trainer and Examiner for the La Fédération Française d'Equitation (FFE), it all comes down to the horse's posture. The horse's ability to use the powerful mechanisms already built into his body reliesnotupon the strength we can see on the outside but the strength on theinside. This invisible and complex arrangement of int...

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...

Over time, horses (like people) acquire postural habits, compensate for soreness and injury, and develop poor movement patterns. This limits performance ability, causes unsoundness and health issues, and ultimately undermines the horse's overall well–being.Jec Aristotle Ballou has made a name for herself advocating for the horse and providing sensible instruction in his schooling, conditioning, and care. Her bestselling books and popular clinics are designed to enable any horse person to c...

Horse riders, horse lovers, and equestrians everywhere will enjoy this new book from our favorite controversial chiropractor, Dr. Daniel Kamen. Dr. Dan explains how any horse owner or stable keeper can take proper care of their animal. These animals are the same equine version of highly trained athletes, he says, and like any athlete they are susceptible to strain or injury. Whether the patient is human or animal, the basic chiropractic technique--manipulating the spine to return misaligne...

A long-awaited update of the classic equine massage referenceFully revised and updated, this new edition provides step-by-step instructions and more than 180 photographs and diagrams to help riders and professionals alike master equine massage techniques. This authoritative guide provides detailed information about massage movements, pressures, rhythms, and sequences. It includes:* An introduction to equine anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology* Practical information o...

The knowledge of the old masters - presented in an accessible way. The secrets of classical riding. Analysed for the first time and accompanied by many practical examples, ancient knowledge is presented here in a modern way. Almost forgotten, yet essential riding methods, such as the Bügeltritt (the position of the rider's foot in the stirrup) or ridden work with a cavesson are described in detail.

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...