Riding, showjumping and horsemanship Books

Book SynopsisA unique book combining the talents of an exercise specialist, physical therapist, and gifted rider. Together, they've created a whole new exercise and stretching program to practice off the horse and improve your performance on the horse.

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Book SynopsisTen years have elapsed since the last publication of this book, necessitating a substantially revised edition of this invaluable guide to equine law for students, owners and professionals within the horse industry and solicitors involved in cases concerning horses. Existing subjects brought up to date include: buying and selling, lending and borrowing, negligence, import and export, riding establishments, rights of way, road traffic, veterinary surgeons, betting and gaming, and rules and disciplinary procedures of equestrian bodies.

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Book SynopsisA crucial element of eventing is that horse and rider complete the cross-country course within a set time (''the optimum time''). If the competitor takes longer, significant penalty points are awarded against him or her. Many eventers try to achieve the optimum time by taking unnecessary risks, which, as Stuart Tinney explains, can be avoided if the correct training is carried out. Stuart Tinney, an Olympic gold medallist, completed the Sydney Olympic course easily within the optimum time, not through uncontrollable speed but through accurate and controlled riding. This skill and the associated training and horse management are explained and demonstrated in the book, including: Equipment for the horse and rider Walking the course Riding cross country safely and efficiently Training for cross country in the arena Horse fitness and management Horse types This book will therefore be of interest to all eventeTable of ContentsForeword. Introduction. Acknowledgements. 1. Equipment for the Horse and Rider. 2. Walking the Course. 3. Riding Cross Country Safely and Efficiently. 4. Training for Cross Country in the Arena. 5. Horse Fitness. 6. Horse Management. 7. Horse Types. 8. Summing Up. 9. How It All Started. Stuart’s Results. Index.

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Book SynopsisExamine the anatomy of a horse from an entirely different perspective. This intriguing and original explanation of the 11 internal body systems of horses shows them painted on the outside to describe everything on the inside. The horse is a highly sophisticated living organism so to enable him to reach his full athletic performance and give him a happy, healthy quality of life it is vital to understand both his capabilities and limitations within the context of his structure and function. Gillian Higgins turns her trademark technique of painting internal diagrams directly onto live horses to show how all the systems work, and work together, to influence performance and reduce the risk of injury.Divided into 12 chapters, Horse Anatomy for Performance combines high quality photographs and intricate paintings with top tips and fascinating facts to provide a practical and useful guide to horse anatomy. Visually appealing, original and easily understandable, the bTable of ContentsForeword; Preface; Introduction; 1. Skin; 2. Skeleton; 3. Muscles; 4. Connective Tissues of the Musculo-skeletal System; 5. Nervous System; 6. Respiratory System; 7. Circulatory System; 8. Digestive System; 9. Lymphatic System - major lymph nodes and vessels; 10. Urinary System; 11. Reproductive System; 12. Endocrine System; Conclusions; About Painting Horses; Glossary; Index.

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Book SynopsisThis title offers a fascinating ''inside-out'' view of how the horse uses its body, that is presented in a graphic, easy-to-follow way to aid you in improving all aspects of riding and training. Discover the true effect of riding and training on each part of the horse by seeing the skeleton and major muscles painted on the outside. It includes practical exercises that demonstrate how to improve movement, build the right muscles and increase suppleness in the horse. It includes step-by-step guidance on the correct way to warm-up your horse and stretching routines to help guard against injury. Unlike other books on biomechanics and anatomy How Your Horse Moves is truly applied.Table of ContentsForeword; Introduction; 1 Inside the horse - an examination of basic anatomy; 2 The applied mechanics of movement; How horses move; Training and development; 3 Stretching and warm-up; About the author; Index.

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Book SynopsisRobin Oakley brings alive the colourful world of those who ride and train jumping horses.With elegant production and gripping images, Sixty Years of Jump Racing chronicles the social and economic changes which have brought the sport's ups and downslike the development of sponsorships and syndicate ownership, the near loss of the Grand National, the growing domination of the Cheltenham Festival and the growth of all-weather racing to meet the bookies' demands for betting shop fodder. Pace and colour is provided by stories of the horses who have been taken to the heart of racing crowds, like the Irish-trained hurdler Istabraq and Best Mate, the three-times winner of the Cheltenham Gold Cup for England. Famous rivalries and memorable races are re-lived and key victories revisited in portraits of and interviews with the owners, jockeys and trainers who have dominated the sport.The emphasis will be largely on the past fifty yearsfrom Arkle to Tony McCoybut a significant Trade ReviewA very fine book indeed… a love letter to a sport the two authors adore… Readers of this will be grateful to Oakley and Gillespie. A good job has been done * Racing Post *A labour of love written with Edward Gillespie… it charts National Hunt racing from the mid-1960s when the incomparable steeplechaser Arkle’s reign ended to the retirement of the 20-times champion jockey Sir AP McCoy in 2015. At its heart is a series of insightful interviews with leading trainers that illustrate the sport’s evolution * Yorkshire Post *Highly recommended… People bitten by jump racing after watching the National, the Champion Hurdle or the Cheltenham Gold Cup will find this book a useful guide to a sport with deep roots. Whether it will help them pick out winners is another matter... * The Pink, Southampton *For the true racing fan Sixty Years of Jump Racing will revive a host of memories * XtraTime *A colourful anecdote-packed history of steeplechasing and hurdling. This is a thoroughly enjoyable romp through the sport that maintains the strong gallop right through the 280-odd pages * Blackpool Gazette *This beautifully produced book encapsulates a majestic history * Cotswold Life *A great coffee table read * Three Counties Race Club Magazine *This book lays out the history in a way that has not been achieved before... A must for all horse racing fans * Firetrench *an exceptional book for any sport lover, let alone National Hunt enthusiast… there is never a dull moment – this is a book I keep on my bedside * Fitzdare Times *What we have, in some ways, is a love letter to a sport the two authors adore. This is highly readable and is enhanced by glorious photographs. * Racing Post *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Racing’s acronyms and abbreviations Foreword by Edward Gillespie The Cheltenham Gold Cup The Champion Hurdle The Grand National The Champion Trainers Women in Racing The Jockey’s Life The Champion Jockeys Ireland Finding the Horses The Royals and Racing Running Racing Paying for Racing Betting on Racing Epilogue Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisONE OF USA TODAY''S “20 SUMMER BOOKS YOU WON''T WANT TO MISS” In the bestselling tradition of works by such authors as Susan Orlean and Mary Roach, a New York Times reporter and Pulitzer Prize finalist explores why so many people—including herself—are obsessed with horses.It may surprise you to learn that there are over seven million horses in America—even more than when they were the only means of transportation—and nearly two million horse owners. Acclaimed journalist and avid equestrian Sarah Maslin Nir is one of them; she began riding horses when she was just two years old and hasn’t stopped since. Horse Crazy is a fascinating, funny, and moving love letter to these graceful animals and the people who—like her—are obsessed with them. It is also a coming-of-age story of Nir growing up an outsider within the world’s most elite inner circles, and finding her true north in hor

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Book Synopsis'Poignant and compelling, an equine Bridget Jones.' Racing PostBeing a stable lass is probably one of the hardest jobs in the country, and yet for Gemma Hogg it is the most rewarding. She works in the beautiful Yorkshire market town of Middleham and if her colleagues are occasionally challenging, then the horses are downright astonishing. Now, in Stable Lass, she takes us into the closed world of a top racing yard, from the elation of having several winners in one day to the almost indescribable grief of losing a horse. Like most stable lads and lasses, Gemma arrived in her yard as a teenager fresh out of racing college and had to cope with living away from home for the first time, as well as adapting to the brutal long hours, backbreaking work and often treacherous weather. She describes falling in love with Polo Venture, the first racehorse in her care, the pure exhilaration of riding him on Middleham Gallops for the first time and what happens when a horse takes against you, from the growling gelding Valiant Warrior to the potentially lethal Broadway Boy. She brings to life the characters around the yard, from straight-talking boss Micky Hammond to the jockeys starving themselves to make weight, the wealthy owners and the other stable lads and lasses who come from a range of different places and backgrounds. Stable Lass by Gemma Hogg is a unique look into the world of horse racing filled with heart-warming stories and amazing thoroughbreds – some loveable, some cantankerous, all impressive.Trade ReviewVividly funny, shockingly frank, deeply passionate, movingly sensitive - and that’s just about the horses! A bawdy, caring, and wickedly insightful stable yard rite of passage that no racing fan should miss. There’s never been a book like this before. -- Brough ScottA delightful romp. * Daily Mail *A poignant, compelling, hilarious, emotional account of life as a Yorkshire stable lass. * Racing Post *An exhilarating ride and a fascinating ‘muck and all’ glimpse into the closed world of horse racing. * Lancashire Evening Post *Full of heartwarming stories and some very characterful thoroughbreds * Horse & Rider *Stable Lass is a must-read. * Horse & Hound *

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Book Synopsis'Poignant and compelling, an equine Bridget Jones.' – Racing PostBeing a stable lass is probably one of the hardest jobs in the country, and yet for Gemma Hogg it is the most rewarding. She works in the beautiful Yorkshire market town of Middleham and if her colleagues are occasionally challenging, then the horses are downright astonishing. Now, in Stable Lass, she takes us into the closed world of a top racing yard, from the elation of having several winners in one day to the almost indescribable grief of losing a horse. Like most stable lads and lasses, Gemma arrived in her yard as a teenager fresh out of racing college and had to cope with living away from home for the first time, as well as adapting to the brutal long hours, backbreaking work and often treacherous weather. She describes falling in love with Polo Venture, the first racehorse in her care, the pure exhilaration of riding him on Middleham Gallops for the first time and what happens when a horse takes against you, from the growling gelding Valiant Warrior to the potentially lethal Broadway Boy. She brings to life the characters around the yard, from straight-talking boss Micky Hammond to the jockeys starving themselves to make weight, the wealthy owners and the other stable lads and lasses who come from a range of different places and backgrounds. Stable Lass by Gemma Hogg is a unique look into the world of horse racing filled with heart-warming stories and amazing thoroughbreds – some loveable, some cantankerous, all impressive.Trade ReviewVividly funny, shockingly frank, deeply passionate, movingly sensitive - and that’s just about the horses! A bawdy, caring, and wickedly insightful stable yard rite of passage that no racing fan should miss. There’s never been a book like this before. -- Brough ScottA delightful romp. * Daily Mail *A poignant, compelling, hilarious, emotional account of life as a Yorkshire stable lass. * Racing Post *An exhilarating ride and a fascinating ‘muck and all’ glimpse into the closed world of horse racing. * Lancashire Post *Full of heartwarming stories and some very characterful Thoroughbreds * Horse & Rider *

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Book SynopsisLearn the underlying principles of speaking both "horse" and "human" from an internationally acclaimed horseman. Life Lessons from a Ranch Horse describes celebrated horse trainer Mark Rashid's experiences with one special--and especially challenging--horse named Buck. Mark finds that Buck's unique personality teaches him a wealth of information ab

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Book SynopsisThe author of the best-selling "Dancing with Horses" returns to further explain the intricate body language of the horse.

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Book SynopsisEvery 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 relies not upon the strength we can see on the outside but the strength on the inside. This invisible and complex arrangement of internal 'core' muscles control the horse's posture, suppleness, and agility. Their good condition is the key to the dance. Equine core muscles are very difficult to isolate with the traditional training techniques common to horse sports. However, by examining what we do with the human body when faced with a weak core, we can find new methods for conditioning these areas of the equine body. Visconte Cocozza has taken principles of the human practice of yoga and used them to develop novel ways of reaching deep within the horse's body and gently 'unlocking' areas that may be a little "rusty" while at the same time improving core fitness. In Core Conditioning for Horses, he provides step-by-step instruction explaining easy mounted exercises that enhance the horse's posture, and boost his confidence in his body and movement, making him easier to ride, and ultimately, the dance partner you've always imagined.Trade ReviewI love this book! My Swedish Warmblood mare needs to build core strength. I found the exercises to not only work to do that, my mare actually enjoys them! They have improved her flexibility, and since she seems to find them relaxing, I think it has improved our bond as well. I highly recommend this book.Overall, I believe Cocozza sets up readers for success with their horses. I look forward to enacting the exercise plan with my horse and foresee a lot of arena dirt ground into the binding of my copy, as I'll need it with me for a reference while I ride.Table of ContentsIntroduction PART ONE — Understanding the Horse's Core 1. The Back: Where All Movement Begins 2. The Course of the Force in the Horse: The Core 3. Horses Are People Too 4. Assessing the Horse's Core and Choosing a Warm-Up Plan PART TWO — The Core Conditioning Exercises 5. How to Ride from the Horse's Core 6. Ten Core Exercises for the Horse 7. Happy Bendy Horse Acknowledgements Index p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Minion Pro'}

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Book Synopsis'Whether first time horse owner or seasoned professional, you are guaranteed to come away with a detailed, systematic, and comprehensive method for a happier, healthier equine partner'. Lameness is the most common cause of poor performance in the horse. This makes management of his soundness over the long term integral to both his general well being and his ability to participate in recreational and competitive activities. Unfortunately, most equine caretakers are unable to perceive abnormal movement in the horse, extending the period between the onset of a problem and its eventual treatment, and the longer an issue is allowed to persist, the greater the chance that it will progress. Many equine veterinarians also find it difficult to visually decipher lameness, which leads to lengthy, expensive, and often inaccurate diagnostic work ups. It is with these two key audiences in mind that Dr. Bob Grisel has created a book unlike any other. With hundreds of illustrations, dozens of charts, and links (via scannable QR codes within the book) to online videos of explanatory case studies, readers are given a complete course in observing, identifying, and decoding equine lameness. Dr. Grisel helps you interpret what is seen, plain and simple (no need for medical knowledge of equine anatomy and pathology).Trade ReviewA massive amount of shared knowledge presented in a very easy to follow non-vet school manner... Love the interactive video QR codes throughout the book that provide great visual help to go along with the text. Highly recommended for any horse owner or horse health practitioner. This is a book you will use time and time again.This unique book should be required reading for anyone who works with horses: veterinarians, blacksmiths, trainers, massage therapists, etc. It is a one-of-a-kind deconstruction of equine lameness.No broad-brush overview, Equine Lameness for the Layman is a veterinary text sweetened with helpful illustrations and such plain-language descriptions as 'right front non-weight-bearing lameness looks as if the horse is dragging a brick with a right front pastern.Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Introduction Glossary SECTION ONE: Our Responsibility to the Performance Horse SECTION TWO: What is Lameness? SECTION THREE: Forms of Lameness SECTION FOUR: Pertinent Equine Anatomy SECTION FIVE: The Fundamentals of Productive Observation SECTION SIX: The Method of Visual Lameness Assessment SECTION SEVEN: The Gait Signature SECTION EIGHT: Applying Our Observations to the Diagnostic Process References Video Quick Library References About the Author Index

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Book SynopsisChristoph Hess, a Fédération Equestre International (FEI) “I” Judge in both dressage and eventing, is highly respected around the world as a teacher of riding and the development of the horse according to classical principles. Here he collects some of his very best riding and training tips along with well-honed insight related to the topics that he finds most often challenge equestrians and their equine partners. Ride Better with Christoph Hess provides thoughtful, easy-to-apply advice when dealing with issues with the gaits, in particular the walk and canter; high-headedness or the horse that is “too light” in the poll; inconsistency of performance; leaning on the bit; falling out; lack of straightness; and much more. In addition, Hess breaks out particular skills and movements that often need specialized attention when in the dressage or jumping ring, and when going cross-country. Throughout Hess emphasizes that a rider must always strive to improve, for the simple reason that you can always do better for your horse. While competitive and training goals do, of course, bring a certain satisfaction, it is having an equine partner who is contented in his work and happy in your company that rewards most. This lesson, and all Hess's tips and solutions, are invaluable to equestrians of every level - everyone can walk away from this book a better rider.Trade ReviewChristoph's book is delivered wholly around his classical development training principles. It's thoughtful, easy-to-apply advice and a collection of his best riding and training tips. The most common challenges for riders of all levels (that he has encountered) are also addressed — the regular, most frequent ones such as leaning on the bit, falling out, lack of straightness, as well as 'Top at home, flop at show' — a horsey 'problem' that crops up regularly at all levels and one of the reasons riders ask him for help. * Essex Rider *Ride Better with Christoph Hess, is a new book, out now, which is full of helpful tips and pieces of advice for riders and their horses whether they are interested in dressage, eventing or showjumping.Christoph (pictured top) is an FEI I judge in both dressage and eventing and is highly respected around the world as a trainer too, adhering to classical principles. Here he picks out problems and sticking points he finds most common when training horse and rider and shares his advice in a very easy-to-follow manner.No matter what level you are riding to, this book is a must-read. Throughout Hess emphasises that a rider must always strive to improve, for the simple reason that they can always do better for their horse.Deserves to be a bookshelf reference for every barn, regardless of discipline-after all, we all want to ride better.Aspirational in an inviting way, and Hess's advice is straightforward, easy to understand, and of course, classically correct.What I like about this book is it is a real problem-solver... a very good book for specific issues. Two thumbs up.Table of ContentsForeword by Uta GrafIntroduction 1. General Challenges in Dressage Work Walk - The Most Difficult Gait Losing our Rhythm in Seven-League Boots Enough Already with Short Strides The Wooden Canter Born to Stretch - Long and Low Young 'Pushy' and 'High-Headed' Light in the Poll - A Challenge Stretch, Then Stretch, Then Stretch Some More A Horse That Leans on the Bit Help - My Horse is a 'Wiggleworm'! The Infamous 'Sweet Side' Falling Out Over the Shoulder Straightness - A Challenge Unbalanced Canter to the Left Out of Control at Canter Flying Changes - A Challenge for Horse and Rider The Secret to a Good Half-Pass 2. Special Challenges in Dressage Work When the Mare Runs Away Rein Lame - A Rider Problem Grinding - A Long Term Issue The Move from Snaffle to Double Bridle Backward - Never with Pressure Determining the 'All-Rounder' Conditioning for the Dressage Horse Rehabilitating a Riding Horse Briefly and Quickly Trained Under Saddle The Unfocused Horse From Broodmare to Riding Horse From the Racetrack to the Dressage Arena From School Horse to Personal Horse From Riding Horse to Driving Horse Fearful, Arrogant, or Fresh? A Young Whippersnapper Lacks Respect My Horse Fidgets 3. Challenges in Show Jumping and Riding Cross-Country Training Over Single Fences More Courage on Course 'Top' at Home but a 'Flop' at Shows Hacking Out on a 'Loose Canon' When your Child wants to Event When Trust Fails Cross-Country 4. Select Challenges The Art of the Canter (Departure) Laziness in Horses Acknowledgements Photos & Illustrations Index

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Book SynopsisOver 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 correctly apply proven principles that bring measurable progress while avoiding boredom and confusion.In her latest collection of mounted and unmounted corrective exercises, Ballou demonstrates how we can actively work to improve the horse's posture and movement, whether he is an active performance or pleasure mount, an aging or older horse that benefits from gentle exercise, or one being rehabilitated following injury, illness, or lack of conditioning. Ballou's positive cross-training techniques are free of shortcuts, and her guidelines for analyzing the horse's posture and way of going help readers gain a new awareness of the equine body.Applicable for all disciplines, this is an integral collection that optimizes how the horse uses his body and helps ensure he stays sounder and healthier for more years of his life.Trade ReviewOverall a very informative book that will be well received by those that seek to improve their knowledge of the movement and posture of the horse and wish to learn how to improve his wellbeing with simple exercises that can be done easily everyday. Recommended reading for riders of all levels.Jec Aristotle Ballou is back at it again with another informative, picture-filled book with the primary focus of optimising horse movement. From everyday tips to breakdowns of elaborate exercises with bars, Ballou sets you up with tactics to try in the saddle and on the ground for peak performances.Easy-to-follow... great get-out-of-the-arena work.Ballou breaks the 55 exercises down into easily-digestible steps, organised by type of work (corrective, postural, bodywork for bad habits, groundwork and daily exercises).... 55 Corrective Exercises For Horses can help put more tools at the rider's disposal to keep our horses performing their best.Table of ContentsChapter 1: Corrective Exercises to Create New Patterns Chapter 2: Tuning up Postural Muscles Chapter 3: Simple Bodywork to Break Bad Habits Chapter 4: Getting the Most from Groundwork Chapter 5: Exercises and Tips to Follow Every Day

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Book SynopsisDr James Warson, a neurosurgeon and lifelong horseman, says that over 90 percent of the population seeks help for back pain at one point or another during their lifetime. If you’re a horseperson, back pain is of particular concern since everything you do on and around horses demands a supple, strong, healthy back: riding, grooming, tacking up, stacking hay bales, and even pushing a wheelbarrow. This book provides practical information to understand the diagnosis, treatment, and pain management related to a rider’s back problems, whatever the cause. Dr Warson breaks down the physics of movement, and explains how combining two separate bodies, human and horse, creates additional sources of potential back strain and injury. Traditional and alternative treatments are discussed, and Dr Warson includes step-by-step instructions for a do-it-yourself physical therapy plan that will not only help those already dealing with back pain, but helps to improve rider flexibility and strength, to prevent the onset of a problem.This new revised paperback edition also includes a special section on riding after hip and knee replacement surgery.Trade ReviewEssential reading... No matter which discipline you ride, this book will help you become stronger and more comfortable. * The Chronicle of the Horse *Table of ContentsPreface PART ONE: Back Basics: Contributors and Causes of Pain 1. The 'Normal' Back 2. The Aching Back 3. What Problems Do I have? 4. The Human Back Joins with the Horse PART TWO: Back in the Saddle: Achieving, Improving, and Maintaining Back Health 5. Dr Warson's Rx for Flexibility and Strength 6. Dr Warson's Rx for Pain Management 7. Dr Warson's 'Save Your Body' Prevention Plan Glossary of Terms Acknowledgements Index

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Book SynopsisIn recent decades, knowledge in the field of equine physical therapy has accrued as different types of bodywork have steadily gained acceptance in the horse world. An understanding of anatomy and biomechanics, and a grasp of the variable options available to both keep the active equine healthy and rehabilitate following an injury or layoff have become integral aspects of general horse health management. Equine physical therapy expert Helle Katrine Kleven understands the need for a reference that supports the horse owner as she strives to keep her horse sound in body and mind, and at the top of his game. In this highly illustrated book, she begins with a comprehensible introduction to the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, as well as an instructive conversation covering biomechanics basics, then explores the major areas of therapy in detail. Readers will find practical how-to guidance in the most popular therapeutic modalities, as well as cutting-edge alternatives that are currently gaining ground: fascia work, stretching, massage, stability and strengthening exercises, laser therapy, kinesiotaping, and much more. With this incredible course in preventive and rehabilitative techniques, horse owners and professionals will be thoroughly prepared to ensure their horses’ comfort and well-being. Table of ContentsForeword by Bettina Hoy Foreword (for 4th edition) by Victoria Max-Theurer Preface 1. Introduction to Physical Therapy for Horses 2. The Anatomy of the Musculoskeletal System 3. Biomechanics 4. The Nervous System 5. Observation 6. Palpitation 7. Massage - The Art of Healing With Your Hands 8. Mobilizing and Stretching 9. Stabilization and Strengthening 10. Physical Therapy 11. Rehabilitation 12. Preventive Measures Anatomy Tables (Skeletal and Muscular) Glossary Acknowledgements Index

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Book SynopsisBeth Baumert's first book, When Two Spines Align: Dressage Dynamics, was a popular and critical success. Lauded by Olympian Carl Hester as the book he most frequently quotes at clinics, it examined the ways the physical bodies of horse and rider work together—the physics behind riding in balance. In Baumert's new book How Two Minds Meet, she takes us beyond physical harmony to look at the minds of both horse and rider, each complete with its own set of emotions and mental capabilities. Readers will explore: How the mind of the horse works. The rider's “two minds”—the analytical mind and the sensory dimension of the mind (with which the horse more readily identifies). Specific ways to get into the “non-thinking place” where the best communication between horse and rider takes place. Principles of Learning that enable riders to improve the use of the traditional, knowledge—accumulating part of their brains. Nine ideas for boosting your ability to learn, retain, and apply knowledge that's useful in training horses. Methods for organising and “filing” information so it can be best utilised. How to ensure the horse is physically comfortable (balanced) under saddle to allow for a meeting of the minds in the first place. Not only does Baumert explain how to optimise the use of the “thinking mind” in order to become a better learner in the saddle, she provides techniques for maximising mental and emotional harmony with the horse, a state of unity that feels so good, Baumert calls it the “charming addiction”—once a rider has it, she wants to attain it again and again. Feeding this addiction is possible, says Baumert, with the thoughtful, practical insight she shares in these pages.

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Book SynopsisStride control (striding) is an essential part of any rider’s development when jumping obstacles, and jumping them well, is a goal. Understanding and implementing stride control (being able to adjust the number of strides before and between fences) improves a horse’s rideability and allows the rider to further improve the horse’s technique over an obstacle. Jen Marsden Hamilton discovered striding from the master himself: former US Show Jumping Chef d’Equipe credits her as being the first student to whom he taught the method that he’d learned from Bertalan De Némethy, one of his mentors. Now, after coaching countless riders and horses around the world in the striding techniques that brought her success during her own impressive competitive career, Hamilton has compiled her knowledge in a concise book of exercises and insightful strategies. This fun, approachable guide will help all riders train with correctness and form good habits at home so they can be stars at their next jumping or eventing competition. Exercises include detailed set-up instructions and illustrations for reference; clear discussion of the purpose and strategy for the training session; and helpful tips, to ensure all involved are benefiting from the lesson. Throughout, Hamilton’s straight-talk and wry humour provides entertainment as well as advice, providing an all-around superb guide to this necessary jumping skill.

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Book SynopsisA growing number of individuals with special needs are discovering the benefits of therapies and activities involving horseback riding. Special Needs, Special Horses, by Naomi Scott, offers information about the amazing results possible with therapeutic riding, or hippotherapy. From recreational riding for individuals with disabilities to the competitions some riders enter (and win), Scott describes the various techniques of the process and its benefits to the physically and mentally challenged. The book explores the roles of the instructors, physical therapists, volunteers, and the horses, and explains carriage driving, vaulting, and educational interactions with horses. Scott profiles individuals involved in the therapy, including clients whose special needs arose from intrauterine stroke, cerebral palsy, transverse myelitis, Parkinson's disease, paralysis, sensory integration dysfunction, multiple sclerosis, shaken baby syndrome, sensory damage, stroke, seizures, infantile spasms, Down syndrome, and autism. Special Needs, Special Horses is an excellent guide for the families of the many who do - or could - enjoy improved lives from therapeutic riding. It will also appeal to practitioners of therapeutic riding as an overview of their profession.Trade ReviewThis book opened new doors for my daughter. When all other sports were taken away from her I was so excited to find horseback therapy. And it allowed me to be involved with her. This book is a must read for parents struggling with therapy problems. - Michelle Hartman, mother of a child born with a hip disorder

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Book SynopsisDrawing on the theories of a number of respected dressage masters, this volume shows how both horse and rider can benefit greatly from traditional dressage techniques and exercises. "Lessons in Lightness" is a step-by-step program that teaches the rider to focus on the subtle nuances of communication, while encouraging the horse to develop gymnastically so they can respond quickly and efficiently. Also included in this superb volume is expert information on teaching your horse to release inner tension, build overall strength, and how to enhance the horse's true and natural gait. No other volume available provides the level of detail found in this volume, it will become an essential reference for horse-lovers everywhere.

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Book SynopsisThe popular and highly respected horse trainer Mark Rashid brings together Western and Eastern philosophies to demonstrate a seamless new incarnation of horse training. After years of helping “difficult” horses, Mark Rashid understands how to build the foundation of a horse’s training and resolve any problems encountered along the way. He explains how he allows the traditionally firm or assertive approach of the old Western style to take some lessons from the softer conflict resolution and ego reduction approach that the Japanese martial art of aikido teaches. Rashid’s ultimate goal is for harmony between horse and rider.When Rashid discovered the art of aikido, he came to realize the effect it had on his own sense of self. After extensive training in this martial art form, he learned how to use his mind and body more efficiently and effectively and improved his equine sense to help horses become better competitors and a more pleasurable mount. Aikido helped Rashid become a more informed and more skilled rider and trainer. In this book, Rashid shares that knowledge with readers, allowing them to bond better with their own horses.

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Book SynopsisDressage 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.

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Book SynopsisSurveys show that riders over the age of 40 are the fastest-growing segment of the horse world, with those age 65 and above seeing the biggest jump. Yes, when we conjure up images of “horse girls” the picture is generally comprised of happily grubby youngsters or teenagers with roomfuls of ribbons, but there is healthy segment of the equestrian population that first finds—or first finds time for—horses in midlife or beyond. And this is the only handbook available for these riders, trainers, rescuers, and volunteers. With carefully curated guidance collected over years of horsing around, rider and writer Fran Severn knows of which she speaks and wants readers to feel emboldened and empowered by the tips, lessons, and advice shared in these pages. You'll find: - Options for riding…and not riding (but still having horses in your life). - Finding an instructor and being a good student. - What can your body still do? Fitness, weight, and fear. - Effects of menopause, arthritis, and changing vision, hearing, and breathing. - Rules for buying, leasing, and boarding horses. - Dealing with family and horse-related finances. - And much more. Riders of a Certain Age is poised to provide an important reference to any individual who craves the companionship of a horse and the sisterhood that can go along with it. If you have ever wondered what it might be like to “be an equestrian” but aren't sure which steps to take first, Severn provides all you need to get started safely, comfortably, and with confidence—and with the knowledge that you are far from being alone.

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Book SynopsisWhether competing in the show ring or riding at home on the trail, every rider wants to be more secure and balanced in the saddle and effective with their aids. This innovative guide uses highly effective exercises to develop your athleticism on horseback so you can say goodbye to common rider problems, such as: - Swinging lower legs. - Stiff arms. - Trouble balancing over the horse’s center of gravity. - Half-halts that go unanswered. - Incorrect mechanics, on the flat and in the jumping position. - And more. Division I collegiate riding coach Sally Batton has spent over 30 years perfecting her methods specifically designed to refine and polish riders, whatever their level. In her work with hundreds of varsity team athletes, she found that trouble with position and lack of specific horsemanship skills happens for two reasons: First, riders may not have an understanding of the biomechanics required to maintain the correct position. Second, they may not have attained the suppleness and strength required to maintain a fluid, elastic position on the horse. Her secret to combatting these difficulties won her teams dozens of championships and awards through the years. Here you learn both her time-proven warm-up and her exciting “Equicize” routine: a series of progressive exercises similar to aerobics on horseback. Batton's recommendations help you build and strengthen the major muscle groups used by equestrian athletes, and all exercises can be customized so you can raise or lower the intensity as needed to suit your age, level, and riding style. Plus, readers find dozens of creative training “hacks” that will get them on their way to greater levels of riding proficiency in no time at all.

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Book SynopsisThe definitive guide to individualized equine management based on the horse’s personality and body type. Dr. Ina Gösmeier leads the horse world in her area of specialization. A classically trained veterinarian, she supports her Western medical practice with knowledge gained through the study of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This handbook provides a basic introduction to the guiding principle of determining a horse's type before making decisions about handling, care, training, or treatment. According to TCM there are five horse types, assignments that are based not only on the horse's behavior, but on his build and body conformation, as well as diagnosis of his tongue and pulse. By determing the horse's type, you learn: How to understand and partner with each individual equine in the best ways possible. Appropriate choices related to training and handling techniques. Insight related to how a horse travels and what can keep him comfortable and healthy on the road. Why one horse learns quickly, why one always needs more rest, why another needs to be motivated with variety, and why some are fine alone while others need a friend at their side. A TCM type description helps the horse owner and rider assess the horse more accurately, promote the horse's training and well-being in a targeted manner, and troubleshoot existing and potential rideability problems. This book shares 11 case studies of horse types “in harmony” and “in disharmony” to demonstrate how the five horse types can be applied on day-to-day basis as well when treatment for injury or illness is necessary. Basic instructions for DIY acupressure and herbal therapy for health maintenance over the long term are also included.

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Book Synopsis"A confident rider is vital to the overall performance of the horse/rider partnership and John Haime’s Ride Big is a great tool for any rider to help improve their confidence in equestrian sport.” - Oliver Townend, FEI #1 World-Ranked Eventer, Olympic Eventing Gold Medalist Tokyo 2021 An easy-to-implement framework proven to grow rider confidence, tested by the world’s leading equestrian athletes. Without confidence, achievement in competition is unattainable. When confidence is lacking in any sport, equestrian included, chances are your career will be short. Renowned performance coach John Haime has written the book to counter this challenge, providing the mental tools riders need to be better under pressure of all kinds and consistently succeed. Haime invites readers to dive into three clear and informative areas of exploration: The Confidence Base: Firm up the fundamentals. The Confidence Builders: Systems and tips to help you build confidence. The Confidence Threats: An inside look at what to watch out for in riding and in competition. Throughout, those who have reached the highest levels on horseback in a number of disciplines share their stories, including Michael Jung, Beezie Madden, McLain Ward, Laura Tomlinson, Harry Meade, Oliver Townend, and Beth Underhill. These Olympians, champions, and medalists explain what they do in the saddle and how their techniques for performing under world-class pressure might help other riders develop a similar kind of confidence. Perhaps even more valuable are the struggles these top competitors share, giving readers the rare opportunity to see how even “the best of the best” are human, too. The way riders develop confidence in their equestrian lives is transferable to everything they do: a confident rider can be a confident business person, confident worker, confident spouse, confident parent, and confident friend. In this way, Ride Big!™ instills a skill of worth and promise that extends far beyond the show ring.Trade ReviewA confident rider is vital to the overall performance of the horse/rider partnership and John Haime’s Ride Big is a great tool for any rider to help improve their confidence in equestrian sport.This guide from John Haime will help equestrians build their confidence, handle their emotions, and deal with pressure. I highly recommend it to competitors looking to take their riding to the next level. * Beezie Madden *In equestrian sports there are so many variables making it easy to find an 'out' or an excuse for failure. But when the rider chooses to take responsibility, Ride Big, and all the athletes in it, will share the secrets and home truths that allow equestrian athletes to unlock their full potential. And on those occasions when things do go wrong, they will know how to genuinely learn from their mistakes and do better in the future. * Laura Tomlinson *Equestrian sport is complex and individual for all riders. Ride Big will help you be better equipped to solve problems, be more confident when confronting challenges, and better enjoy your experiences with horses. Read this book. * Michael Jung *In sum, ‘Ride BIG’ was a fantastic read, and I would recommend it to riders wanting to ‘up their game’ and make sure they tick all the boxes when training and competing their horses.

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Book SynopsisThis modern-day quick reference to more than 50 grids and jumping exercises brings the best of top international training and instruction into your home ring. Build your skillset and your horse's confidence and conditioning with a fantastic selection of lessons you can use to: - Diversify your training routine. - Sharpen your horse prior to competition. - Address specific problem areas. Within these pages you'll have regular access to the tips and tricks that have brought some of the most accomplished riders and trainers professional success. Amateur eventer Margaret Rizzo McKelvy has compiled an unparalleled collection of exercises for any jumping discipline—eventing, show jumping, hunters, and equitation—by tapping the expertise of a remarkable group of top equestrians never before found together in one instructional book, including Olympians Anne Kursinski, Phillip Dutton, Kim Severson, Ingrid Klimke, and Will Coleman. Plus, you'll find: - Easy-to-follow diagrams and clear explanations make it a snap to recreate the lessons at home. - Workouts are easy to modify for smaller or larger arenas. - Recommendations help you adjust exercises as needed relative to the experience level of riders and horses. This one-of-a-kind resource is not only a fabulous addition to any rider's training toolbox, it is invaluable to coaches and instructors looking for ideas and inspiration to help keep their students engaged and growing as riders and educated horsepeople.

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Book SynopsisIt is no secret that riders often neglect their own needs in order to ensure their horses' are met. Countless dollars go toward massages, chiropractic work, and various other therapies that keep our equines comfortable and performing their best. We carefully schedule their training programs to achieve peak fitness at just the right time, and we juggle our personal lives—careers, family, you name it—around it all. But horse sports are a partnership, and if we want our horses to be at their best, then we have to be at ours, and that means paying careful attention to our own athletic bodies. Most riders argue they simply don't have the time to work out and still give their horses the time they need, so certified personal trainer Laura Crump Anderson has written a book that specifically targets the ever-present dilemma of how to fit fitness into a horse-crazy lifestyle. Beginning with explanations of why strength, flexibility, and balance is important to achieve out of the tack, Anderson provides important rules and guidelines for stretching, weight training, and cardio to keep you safe. A lifelong equestrian herself, she then approaches the scheduling issue head-on, helping readers determine where best to fit in the minutes they need in the places they need to be anyway—the tack room, the arena, the barn aisle. Using only basic items you are likely to find around the stable, she keeps equipment needs straightforward, recognizing that the less likely it is you forget something, the more likely it is you'll get that workout in. Readers are then treated to seven original fitness routines, each dedicated to a specific area like the lower body or the core, or designated as a full-body program. Full color photos of top riders, including Jan Byyny, Sloane Coles, and Sharon White, demonstrate how to perform exercises effectively, and step-by-step instructions ensure you get it right. With its clear and to-the-point delivery and attention to the realities of the modern riding life, this book is the perfect way to ensure more active, effective, pain-free years in the saddle.

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Book SynopsisStretching is a necessary part of any athlete's exercise and maintenance routine. Long recognized to promote flexibility and prevent injury in humans, stretching can bring the same benefits to horses when made part of their daily care. This illustrated handbook makes it easy for riders and owners to include simple exercises that improve performance and increase longevity in their usual training schedule. Optimal equine performance requires strength, flexibility, coordination, and resilience. The practice of stretching makes it possible to develop and maintain all these elements in harmony. It also provides valuable transition time from hours that may have been spent in a stall to the gymnastic expectations we have for horses under saddle: rhythm and elasticity of the gaits, willingness to go forward, beautiful and dynamic movement, reliability and surefootedness, and more. With clear descriptions of the anatomical and physiological principles of stretching, readers gain an understanding of the exercises that may be best for their horses and disciplines in mind. Then, detailed instructions are provided explaining: - Simple, quick-to-do joint and muscle evaluations. - Stretches targeting specific muscle groups. - Stretches to promote suppleness and relaxation. - Stretches to warm up and prepare for work. - Stretches for cool down and recovery. Color photographs demonstrate evaluations and stretches step-by-step, supplemented by detailed explanations of what you may discover in your horse's reactions. Perhaps best of all, readers are provided a therapeutic reason for more hands-on time with their horses, and new ways to listen to him, to understand him, and to ultimately improve his well-being and performance.

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All horses have four hooves that are integral to their overall health, their athletic ability, and ultimately, their longevity, whether their “job” is simply grazing in a pasture or competing at the highest levels. But not all horses are the same—the individual needs of each horse require an understanding of responsible, informed hoofcare on the part of the owner, rider, or trainer. This highly illustrated guide by one of the world's leading minds in the area of farriery provides an unparalleled look at advances in shoeing and general hoof maintenance, with the goal of helping owners to comprehend the “whys” of certain choices, recognize variations in shoeing options, and become better consumers of horse shoes and horseshoeing all around. Steve Kraus, Head of Farrier Services at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine and instructor at the Cornell Farrier School, is uniquely qualified to provide a varied and thorough exploration of hoof & related topics, including: Equine conformation—how to assess it in relation to soundness and performance, and how farriers use it to guide shoeing choices. To shoe or not to shoe? Using sense and science to analyze which horses are better served with shoes and which may be comfortable and healthy barefoot. - Types of horseshoes and traction devices, modification devices, adhesives, materials, and more. - Shoe loss—why it happens and how to prevent it. - Farrier training—where and how it happens, how to find a good one and what you should expect. - Horse handling for shoeing—how to prepare your horse and yourself. - The future of farriery with 3D printing. - And so much more. With plenty of “adventures from the road” and lessons learned during his years of shoeing horses professionally, Kraus provides a guide that is not only massive in value, it's entertaining, to boot. An excellent resource for all serious horse people who wish to keep their horses comfortable and performing their very best while making informed decisions and having intelligent conversations with hoofcare professionals.

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Book SynopsisAs times have changed, so has our understanding of the social, psychological, and physical needs of the animals in our care. As open spaces shrink, our view of what is required to keep horses as best suits their nature is expanding. The result is a need for guidance when it comes to making decisions related to modern-day equine management best practices. The hard truth is that the creatures who have long been our companions have also long been expected to adapt to living situations created with primarily human convenience and comfort in mind.With this inspiringly illustrated guidebook, natural horsekeeping expert Iveta Jebácková-Lažanská hopes to help everyone with horses create sophisticated, functional, equine-centric stable systems, in which horses, nature, and people thrive. Jebácková-Lažanská demonstrates how, for those who want to, it's possible to find ways to make outdoor horsekeeping work via a system that has slowly emerged over time that can work for any property, whether small or large. Already, it has been proven to work well by horse owners all over the world, some of whom contributed their knowledge and experiences to these pages.Topics explored include:- Size and type of basic enclosures.- Dealing with weather- and environment-related challenges, like mud.- Location of, type of, and materials used in sheds, shelters, and stalls.- Footing, surfaces, and bedding, both temporary and permanent.- Water supplies and weather concerns.- Horse toilets.- Feeder types, locations, and arrangements.- Fencing, and paddock and pasture management, including rotation, fertilizing, and seasonal concerns.- Areas to roll, wallow, and play.- Natural trees, shrubs, and grasses to encourage and discourage.- Pest control.- Adjusting for the seasons, and your region and climate.With success stories throughout to serve as both evidence and inspiration, readers are certain to come away armed with all they need to allow their horses to live life as they were meant to, in tune with their instinctual needs for forage, movement, and choice, and in concert with the natural world.

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Book SynopsisFormer international event rider Eric Smiley has brought along his own top-level horses for decades. Now he taps his immense knowledge to help riders whose horses may not have had “the right start.” Every horse comes with his own “baggage”—behavior or training issues, minor or significant, that may be difficult to pinpoint or resolve. In these pages, Smiley addresses the most common problems he has seen over the years in dressage, eventing, and show jumping, including: - Problems with head and neck position. - Connection issues. - Failure to follow the rules of forward, straight, and regular. - Difficulty with collection. - Lack of consistency. Smiley teaches readers how to identify what isn't working by looking at how things should work. Then he walks us through dismantling and reassembling the issues, providing an easy-to-follow system for determining what's potentially wrong with a horse and choosing sensible exercises for fixing it. He introduces a troubleshooting five-point system: - Ask yourself, “What is the problem?” - Ask, “How, when, and why did it arise?” - Ask, “Why does it need solving?” - Formulate a plan. - Analyze the results in the context of “now” and what they may mean for the future. Layers and shifts of understanding in horses combined with the physical and psychological challenges of riding can often make solving problems that arise seem complicated, and sometimes it is difficult to know where to even begin. Smiley's system helps readers find that “start point” and map out a sensible plan for future training. He shows how to determine when something may have become an issue for your horse or your performance, ways to try and avoid it happening in the first place, and of course, offers highly practical solutions to employ when you find you do have a problem. Smiley's goal is to “always leave people and horses with a positive journey to go on, with the prospect of ‘better to come.’” With its usefulness, cross-disciplinary approach, and optimism, The Sport Horse Problem Solver is all you need to achieve success in partnership with your horse, wherever you are in your journey together.

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Book SynopsisWorking equitation is a competitive equestrian sport that originated in Europe, with the first European Championship held in 1996. It quickly gained a fanbase for its beauty and its focus on classical horsemanship ideals and developing handiness under saddle. In 2004 the World Association for Working Equitation (WAWE) was established, and today, many countries have their own national organizations for governing working equitation competitions, including the United States—the USAWE was formed in 2020. Heralding the advent of a brand-new way to pursue and demonstrate horse-and-rider connection, working equitation competitor and trainer Ali Kermeen has written a much-needed reference for preparing both horse and rider to participate. The Working Equitation Training Manual provides a one-of-a-kind progressive training system to those new to the sport. Lessons focus on developing confidence with the obstacle phases of working equitation while incorporating dressage principles. The elements of each obstacle are broken down and then brought back together in step-by-step exercises that: - Prepare horse and rider to perform an obstacle properly. - Introduce horses and riders to competition obstacles. - Help improve and polish an obstacle's execution. With clear diagrams and color photographs, a helpful glossary of terms to help those unfamiliar with working equitation terminology, and variations and benefits for every exercise, readers are provided an appealing introduction to an exciting option for adding diversity to daily training, as well as showing and competing in other sports. “I started teaching these skills to all my students, regardless of their riding discipline,” says Ali. “These working equitation exercises help my riders excel at dressage, endurance, trail riding, pony clubbing, eventing, jumping, gaited horses, groundwork, Cowboy Dressage, and breed shows.” The Working Equitation Training Manual promises to do the same for you.

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Book SynopsisEverything you know about riding and the horse's movement isn't what you think it is! Did you know that: - On a functional level, traditional ways of teaching rider position and horse movement do not actually work with the biomechanical system that is horse and rider? - Use of the inside rein does not encourage the horse to bend to the inside? - Training exercises and lessons that claim to be simple cannot be as easily applied as it might seem? In these pages, physical therapist and equine movement specialist Stefan Stammer uses a startlingly unique collection of color illustrations to make movement patterns in the horse visible to the human eye, in order to help riders better understand the principles of energy and motion happening within the horse. By forming new mental images for the rider, Stammer's goal is to profoundly impact the rider's daily work with her horse so that it is harder for her to make common mistakes or interfere with the horse's natural mechanisms. With his hind end as his engine, the horse generates kinetic energy (the energy his body possesses due to its motion). For optimal movement and performance, this energy should flow through the horse's body to the horse's mouth, where it is fine-tuned with the rein aids before cycling back to the hind end. However, this movement flow is often unintentionally disrupted on its way through the horse by the rider. When, however, the cycle of kinetic energy within the horse is supported through the correct understanding and application of biomechanics-the mechanical laws relating to his and his rider's movement and structure-the outer shape of horse and rider together achieve "positive tension." This is the rhythmic stimulation of all the neuromuscular functions necessary to perform harmoniously and at peak ability. Most importantly, once the rider understands the basic principles of the biomechanics of a horse in movement, her "feeling" in the saddle will improve. Better "feel" is an integral building block for the small and subtle steps of progress, which should accompany a rider for her entire life with horses. This smart, fascinatingly composed book is for any horseperson looking to limit riding and training mistakes, grow an understanding of how the horse best functions, and optimize equineability and performance.

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