The Principles of Riding: Basic Training for Horse and Rider

The first edition of The Principles of Riding was published more than 50 years ago, imparting mandatory basic knowledge for all areas of equestrian sport and horse-keeping and this 28th edition, Basic Training for Horse and Rider, has been completely revised regarding language and content, while still taking into account the well-established principles. The consideration of traditional principles leads to the education and training of the horse according to its nature and thus to its health, well-being and performance capability. The horse's instincts and natural behaviour are presented in detail as the basis of communication and understanding between horse and rider. Modern scientific research relating to training theory and biomechanics has influenced the systematic training of the rider as well as that of the horse. The Principles of Riding provides versatile, practical assistance to horse lovers and readers of this book who want to learn, irrespective of whether they ride for leisure or competitively, are interested in hacking or hunting, or want to develop and improve their basic training for dressage, show-jumping or eventing. These Principles should be indispensable for all riders, drivers, trainers and judges, and to all of those who are interested in the appropriate training of the horse, according to the horse's nature, and who place importance on a harmonious cooperation between horse and rider.

Table of Contents:
Foreword Thoughts on Classical Riding Chapter 1: General Basics: Horse - Rider - Trainer - Training Area Chapter 2: The Equipment of Horse and Rider Chapter 3: Preparation for Riding Chapter 4: Seat and Influence of the Rider Chapter 5: Systematic Structure of Lessons Chapter 6: Basic Exercises Chapter 7: The Basic Training of the Horse Index

About the Author :
The German National Equestrian Federation, located in Warendorf, is one of the largest national equestrian federations in the world. Foundations were laid in 1905 as an assocation of breeders and riders with the goal to promote German bred horses. It now covers sports, breeding and personal members.

Review :
Now in its 28th edition, this classic book was first published more than 50 years ago ... Thoroughly revised for this new edition, there are clear, practical instructions for all aspects of horsemanship including tack, where to ride, dressage, show jumping, cross country, troubleshooting faults and basic training for young horses. It's illustrated throughout with line drawings, and gives ideas for how to structure your schooling sessions for maximum benefit. There's even a short chapter aimed at teachers, giving guidelines on lesson content. If it was possible to learn to ride completely from a book, this is the one I'd choose. ...Taken overall, if readers, whether they be teachers, trainers, coaches, riders and especially judges and their teachers, were to thoroughly 'read, learn and inwardly digest' this book and put it into action, the satisfaction and effectiveness of riders and, most importantly, the lot of horses, competitive or otherwise, would be vastly improved. The Principles of Riding is easy to read and very well laid out with clear concise instructions with bullet points and also includes tips on what can go wrong which is very helpful. Clear illustrations really help drive home the salient points of the text making it easy to understand. This book is not just aimed at the novice rider, there is plenty here to interest experienced rider too. Anyone interested in riding will find this a mine of useful information which readers can devour in its whole or dip into at will when questions or problems arise. 'First published more than 50 years ago, it's now on an incredible 28th edition but has seen some changes along the way... Some of the more modern scientific research is now being incorporated in what has always been a complete manual of horsemanship covering rider, horse, training of both, lungeing, jumping, tack and teaching young horses.' Wendy Parsons, Essex Rider