Search results for ""Trafalgar Square""

Trafalgar Square tells the story of the creation and use of one of London's most famous landmarks, from its beginnings in the 1840s up until the present day. Drawing on detailed archival research, it describes how the Square and its memorials to military and naval heroes - including of course Nelson - were conceived, quarrelled over and finally, after many years of building and delays, completed. In 1848, while the Square was still in the making, demonstrations there were prohibited, and ever since that time the story of the Square has been marked by celebration, rallies, public agitation and the perennial fight for free speech.

Read more less

Enjoy the countdown to Christmas! Open a numbered window every day in December until the big day and reveal a seasonal image to help you get in the festive spirit! Produced in partnership with the National Gallery, each window reveals a masterpiece from their incredible collection, including works from George Stubbs, Claude Monet, Raphael and many more. Printed on FSC-certified paper.

Read more less

Striking in the facts it reveals, this book leads equestrians into a brave new horse world, where we train horses their way, not ours. Horse trainer, researcher, and author Andrea Kutsch presents a remarkably unique book that makes it possible, for the first time, to “see” training and learning from the horse’s point of view. She explores the worldwide evolution in training, from 1884 to the present day. With this history as a backdrop, Kutsch then explains her EBEC (Evidence-Based Equine Communication) and science-based training system. In a fascinating presentation of evidence and experience, she recounts her years doing research with thousands of horses at The Lewitz Stud in Neustadt-Glewe, Germany, the renowned farm owned by European champion Paul Schockemöhle. It was there, Kutsch says, that her “world was turned upside down” as the natural horsemanship techniques she had long studied and employed did not have consistent results. Kutsch bravely goes on to myth-bust popular assumptions related to typical gestures made by the horse, such as “licking and chewing” and “lowering the head.” She explores how ethograms can be used to map out equine body language and help us attain a clearer sense of the horse’s true perspective. Additional areas of discussion include: How the horse’s physical and psychological needs must be met in order for him to learn, including what those needs are. The difference between inter- and intra-species communication. The introduction of a new reward-and-punishment model, never before seen in print, that looks at operant conditioning from the horse’s point of view. The need for non-violent communication on the part of the trainer. Identification of the training skills a person must have as well as the human’s responsibilities when working with a horse, and what these look like not from our perspective, but the horse’s. Whether readers choose to try Kutsch’s ideas for science-based training or not, they are certain to never look at riding, training, or caring for horses the same way again.

Read more less

Creating rag rugs has enthralled weavers for over a century. Now you, too, can recycle your favorite fabrics and transform them into unique rugs that will bring a striking personal touch to every room in your home. From stripes, checks, and rosettes to mosaic, twists, and diamond twill; from soft to sturdy, and subtle to statement-making, Tina Ignell's superb selection of rag rugs provides you a wealth of inspiration, conveniently paired with practical instruction. Inside, find: - Six technique-based sections with 45 designs by 20 professional weavers - Charts, illustrations, and color photos of finished projects - Creative use of unusual materials, like lambskin, straw, and leather - Specialty patterns, such as a round rug and a runner for a spiral staircase - Instructions for finishing, including fringed and woven edges - A bonus section of five different rugs woven on the same warp - Resources and supplier contact information

Read more less

Exciting ideas for achieving riding and training goals from the master of mental training for the equestrian athlete. Coach Daniel Stewart, author of the hit mind-and-body equestrian workout Fit and Focused in 52, is back with new plans to power you up, bolster your confidence, and supply you with the mental tools you need to be all you can be, in and out of the saddle. With Coach Stewart's infectious optimism and indomitable sense of fun, readers will find themselves embracing exhilarating changes in their outlook and their abilities. The evolution from “good enough” to “better” begins with: Understanding the attributes that create success. Comprehending the four stages of competence. Improving mindfulness of actions and reactions. Identifying good stress and bad stress—and handling both. Eliminating pressure as a threat. Managing nervousness, hesitation, and doubt. Overcoming failure and perfectionism. Removing limiting beliefs. Moving beyond expectations and comparisons to others. Becoming a good “mirror” for ourselves and others. Beating blind spot biases—beliefs you're not aware of that harm you. Mastering memories and how the brain processes information. Infusing his words with energy and compassion, Coach Stewart offers everyone a chance of attaining self-fulfillment and joy when working with and riding horses. His concepts are friendly, fun, and easy to implement, making his book chock full of potential—just like you. Bolder, Braver, Brighter is for every rider seeking improved performance in the saddle and partnership with the horse.

Read more less

Meet the Horse Counsellors. Survivors of trauma, loss, illness, abuse, stress, and depression can face seemingly insurmountable obstacles. However, a growing body of scientific evidence suggests that horses play a crucial role in therapy for those struggling with significant psychological and emotional challenges. Horses respond to angry, inhibited, heartbroken, defiant, and terrified clients in many different ways, often breaking through defensive barriers via their physical presence, or by pointing to areas of psychological distress not immediately apparent. The horse’s response guides the treatment team, as well as the client, through the healing process. Influenced by her own childhood trauma — where she spent seven days in a coma, awakened to a severely compromised body and brain, and rebuilt her life with the help of a horse — Michelle Holling-Brooks founded Unbridled Change, a non-profit equine-partnered therapy organisation which partners horses with individuals in need. It’s within the pages of this book that she shares the inspiring stories of the horses that play active roles in counselling sessions.

Read more less

Billions of people around the world embrace the practice of yoga. Its lessons in breath control, simple meditation, and specific bodily postures are widely regarded as a means to achieving health and relaxation. Yoga teacher and horsewoman, Cathy Woods, says that's not all: she believes the meditative, mindful breath-work and lifestyle aspects of the tradition, as well as the postures can be profoundly helpful in our interactions with horses. Over the course of her 30-year career, Woods has created teachings that are accessible to everyone — new and experienced yogis, and riders of different levels and disciplines — giving them life changing-benefits, including empowerment, confidence, connection and feel. Her unique programme is presented here in the form of highly illustration instruction, guiding you through the steps to achieving present moment awareness; finding body, breath and energy awareness; breathing through challenges; listening to your inner voice; slowing down; and developing balance and symmetry in the saddle. All of these are key to better communication and improved partnership with our horses. In addition,Woods shares specific stretches for strength, flexibility, and balance, as well as postures that contribute to rider safety as we age. The result is a book that helps us become more aware and conscious riders while gently correcting our imbalances, resulting in a richer, more rewarding, more joyful horsemanship experience.

Read more less

Dr 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.

Read more less

Renowned for their amazing athleticism and unparalleled work ethic, and famed for their big hearts and willingness to go the extra mile, Off-the-Track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs) have proven to be the ultimate equine partners in a host of disciplines. In this revised edition—which experts have labelled ‘breakthrough racehorse literature’, ‘superior’, ‘a winner’, and the ultimate training manual’—readers learn everything they need to transition an OTTB from life at the track to life out back.Author, Anna Ford, Thoroughbred Program Director at New Vocations Racehorse Adoption, begins with a discussion of the typical Thoroughbred’s early years, then explaining: reasons for retirement, common injuries, health issues, basic feeding and nutrition, and safe handling. Ford goes on to provide step-by-step instructions for building the solid educational foundation the OTTB needs to excel in a new career, whether as a highly trained competitor or a pleasure mount.While hundreds of quality photographs illustrate conscientious and professionally tested training methods, dozens of case studies share how other individuals have successfully retrained ex-racehorses. With recommendations from top equestrians, this book is the go-to reference for anyone interested in pursuing a partnership with an OTTB athlete.

Read more less

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 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.

Read more less

Are you ready to build a stronger partnership with your horse? Hoping to achieve a remarkable softness from the ground before you swing into the saddle? Starting a youngster or working to overcome training and behavioural problems in an older mount? Becoming bored with endless round-penning? Australian equestrian stars Dan James and Dan Steers of Double Dan Horsemanship are here to show every horse owner the basic steps to an infinitely useable training skill: long-reining. If ever there was hidden treasure in the diverse and ever-evolving realm of horsemanship, it is this underused but incredibly valuable practice. Long-reining benefits every equestrian discipline as — James and Steers demonstrate — improving the horse's self-carriage and responsiveness to the aids, and your feel and timing, and all from a safe and controlled position on the ground. p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Minion Pro'} p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Minion Pro'} Bring long-reining into your barn with these 20 easy-to-understand lessons, explained step-by-step with full-colour photographs, including how to: use and hold long reins introduce them to your horse navigate with accuracy and change speed perform lateral work that improves your horse's flexibility and overall movement. You, and your horse, will enjoy the drive.

Read more less

Granny squares are a crochet classic for a reason. They’re colourful, quick and fun to make! But the true potential of these dependable design standbys comes in the infinite possibilities offered by their patterning—and the manner in which they’re combined. Swedish crochet innovator Maria Gullberg explores a whole new side to the familiar crochet square, showing how to create fresh, exciting projects by working and joining grannies in clever new ways to form fascinating textures, eye-catching colour effects, and more. Inside, you’ll find step-by-step instruction in stitches, from foundation chain to treble crochet; guidance in how to swap colours along the way; tips and techniques for working, finishing, and joining granny squares, and dozens of adaptable, brilliantly patterned designs with dynamic artistic and visual effects.

Read more less

Everything 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.

Read more less

Three hundred years ago, Norwegian fishermen went to sea no matter the wind or weather—and they needed warm, comfortable, durable sweaters to protect them from the cold while they worked. Now, photographs and documentation of surviving examples have been brought together to form the foundation for this collection: timeless traditional patterning applied to modern styling and shaping, for a selection of sweaters, cardigans, hats, mittens, vests, and more, for men and women, rooted deeply in the rich tapestry of Norwegian history. - Learn the stories behind traditional handmade knitwear: who made it, the lives they lived, and where and how it was used - Explore techniques including stripes, blocks, lice, ribbing, cabling, and more - Adapt reimagined designs to your own style—pullover or cardigan, buttons or zipper, scoop neck or boat neck, in any combination

Read more less

A comprehensive how-to manual for applying Horse Speak principles to common training goals. In 2016 Sharon Wilsie's Horse Speak: The Equine-Human Translation Guide broke new ground for anyone who works with horses, providing a practical system to “listen” and “talk” to horses in their language instead of expecting them to understand ours. Now Wilsie has provided a comprehensive how-to manual for applying Horse Speak® principles to common training goals. Those familiar with Wilsie's work will find novel ideas that have developed since the first book was released, and those new to Horse Speak will be supported with fundamental lessons that will allow them to start having authentic “conversations” with their horses during their very next trip to the barn. With a focus on how horse training methods in general can be improved with certain small changes in movement and mindset, Wilsie has once again created a resource of immense value across the equestrian spectrum. Readers learn: - How to use intensity levels appropriate to a particular lesson. - Why to include enrichment in a training plan. - When to pause, when to allow, and how to adjust expectations. - How to move and breathe like a horse. - The best way to develop a healthy hierarchy with a horse. - How to apply the 15 Buttons of Horse Speak® to help any training situation. - Spiraling in and the optimal ways to move into and out of a horse's space. - Signs of when a horse is saying, “No,” and when he is saying, “Yes.” - How to change patterns of equine behavior in common trouble spots. With illuminating sections on basic handling, groundwork, and ridden work, Wilsie gives readers everything they need to improve the training techniques they already use by enhancing both horse and human understanding of the process and the goals. The result is improved behavior, enhanced performance, and a happier, healthier equine partner in whatever you choose to pursue together.

Read more less

Kari Hestnes has been a knit designer for almost 40 years—and she's a perennial fan favorite for her focus on gorgeous details and stunning embellishment, her flattering garment shaping, and her playful, vivid use of color. Now, she's revisited those four decades of challenging and endlessly rewarding work in order to bring together the best of the best, in one extraordinary collection: classic cabling, dynamic textures, and brilliant multicolor patterns for sweaters, cardigans, and tops, all featuring Hestnes's inimitable style and characteristic aesthetic flourishes. - Patterns using a variety of techniques and design elements, with instructions included for a minimum of five sizes - Full-color photographs of each project—plus additional nature photos were taken by Kari herself - Decades of timeless design inspiration, now available in English for the first time

Read more less

Anne Bårdsgård grew up in Selbu and has always had a close relationship with her hometown and its rich knitting history—her relentless interest in the traditional mittens that made Selbu famous worldwide became the groundwork for her first book, the stunning all-in-one historical reference, design compendium and mitten pattern guide Selbu Mittens. Now she’s back to delve into the wider realm of sweaters, cardigans, socks, and hats with this companion collection: over 450 motifs that can be adapted and combined using any of the foundational garment patterns included, based on extensive and thorough documentation of photographs, drawings, and preserved samples of historical knitted items from Selbu. The result is a unique and unequaled look into the traditional knitting culture of the Selbu region—and an endlessly inspiring pattern resource.

Read more less

For six decades, Lynn Palm has been a mainstay of the horse training, showing, and clinicing industry. Her successes in diversity in training and the development of willingness and ability across disciplines are unparalleled. She has four Superhorse Titles-a prize awarded to a horse that demonstrates a broad skillset and proficiency in multiple sports. In these pages, Lynn shares the eight keys to her success in training and competing, and how you, too-whether you're eventing or ranch riding-can shape a horse with a good attitude, correct movement, healthy biomechanics, and top-notch conditioning. A "Superhorse" will take you farther for longer, and you'll enjoy every minute of it. Readers will learn how: - Not all knowledge is good knowledge, and which knowledge is best. - Groundwork in the form of in-hand, longeing, liberty work, long-lining, and trick training is integral to attaining training goals - To incorporate longevity training with progressive lessons that have the "long game" in mind - The rider's ability directly impacts the horse's - A competitive edge serves both the recreational rider and the one who shows - To overcome the inevitable challenges when training a horse and facing questions of persistence versus suitability - We need to do better for the horse in equestrian sport - "Giving back" to the industry provides a foundation for Superhorses for generations to come With a rich mix of stories curated from years of horse adventures, practical ideas you can put to work in your own arena, and exercises to incorporate in your daily practice, Finding Your Superhorse is the rare inspiring read that teaches. Throughout, Lynn's warmth of character and intense commitment to horses, horse people, and improving the industry that has given her a life and a livelihood shine through, guiding us all toward what's possible and the "super" in every horse.

Read more less

Whether taking their first lessons, handling horses when visiting friends, or enjoying the glorious challenges of first-pony ownership, children need to learn more than just “how to ride.” When it comes to horses, the most important lessons begin on the ground, not only to ensure a young person's safety, but also to promote the fair and informed care of an animal so that he remains healthy and happy in their interactions, too. This highly illustrated, easy-to-use book is the most complete and correct guide available for horse-crazy kids and their families to learn basic horsemanship standards and responsibly apply them in the barn, in the arena, at home, and at competitions. Professional grooms and authors of the bestsellers World-Class Grooming for Horses and World-Class Braiding–Manes & Tails Cat Hill and Emma Ford are both lifelong horsewomen who have managed barns and strings of horses for top riders in all disciplines, including Olympians and World Champions. Since publishing their first book, they have traveled the country teaching clinics in proper horsemanship and grooming to aspiring young riders. Now they have put their wealth of experience to the page with over 400 professional color photos and clear, numbered steps that teach readers the following: - Catching, leading, and handling - Daily grooming - Tacking up - Post-riding or lesson care - Tack cleaning - Barn chores - Packing for shows and competitions - Bathing, clipping, and braiding - Bonding and playing - Games and goals for those who don't want to show - And more! With cool tips and tricks they've learned over the years, and an emphasis on safety and detail without detracting from the fun of being around horses, Hill and Ford have created an instant classic—a much-needed resource that will not only encourage young readers to become complete “horse people” as well as “riders,” it will preserve and pass along the management skills honed over a lifetime in barns held to the highest standards. Hands down, this book is the must-have starter-kit for every young rider.

Read more less

Nina Granlund Sæther has captivated knitters intrigued by the textile history of Norway, with deep dives into the rich pattern traditions for both mitten- and sock-knitting that have formed in various regions of the country. Now she expands her scope to knitwear of all kinds, including shawls, sweaters, cardigans, hats, and more, in this brand new collection. With her trademark attention to detail and patience for painstaking reproduction of knitted patterns, based on archival photographs and examples preserved in museum collections, Nina guides readers through the history and origins of each design, in a fascinating step-by-step tour of Norwegian knitting tradition no knitter should be without. Including a wide variety of styles and techniques—colourwork, relief stitch, openwork, cabling, and more—and adaptable patterns for men and women in sizes from S to XXL, plus tips and tricks for working in multiple colours, finishing necklines and edges, and completing thumbs and heels, this invaluable reference guide treats the reader to a deeper understanding of Scandinavian knitting history, and of the living cultural traditions that follow in its footsteps today.

Read more less

Whether 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.

Read more less

Do-it-yourself physical therapy techniques for keeping your dog happy, active, and pain-free-now and for years to come. Kinesiology taping on humans is now commonplace—it is widely used by physical therapists, chiropractors, and personal trainers. The idea behind taping is that it provides incredible support and stabilization of ligaments and tendons while simultaneously stretching and flexing like a “second skin” to allow full range of motion. It can also activate or relax muscles, depending on its application. Taping is now also being successfully applied to other animals. Canine and equine physiotherapist Katja Bredlau-Morich, author of Kinesiology Taping for Horses, is a pioneer in bringing the method to the dog world. She believes that dogs can benefit hugely from taping techniques, and even better, dog owners and trainers can learn practical steps to using kinesiology tape themselves. In her terrific guidebook, Bredlau-Morich provides the ultimate reference for understanding both the uses of kinesiology tape and its numerous canine applications. With hundreds of color photographs and step-by-step instructions for the do-it-yourselfer, her book explains the following forms of kinesiology taping: Muscle Scar Fascia In addition, numerous case studies demonstrate how taping can change a dog's life, keeping him a happy, active, pain-free companion for years to come.

Read more less

If there is one thing that equestrians have learned to do over time, it is laugh at themselves. The horse world is a crazy, wonderful, ridiculous, awful, beautiful place, and horse people know it. We spend an inordinate amount of money on insanely fragile animals with a well-recognized ability to get hurt just enough to be out of work most of the time and eating and sleeping all of the time. We dress ourselves, and our horses, in silly outfits, obsess over diet, exercise, and footwear (for the horse), and invest in regular massages, chiropractic work, acupuncture sessions, and pedicures (again, for the horse). Morgane Schmidt knows all about the madness that comes with the equine territory, having owned and competed horses in eventing and dressage for years. A lifelong fan of the classic equestrian cartoons penned by internationally renowned artist Norman Thelwell, she began her own comic series in 2011, sharing deftly funny reflections on life with horses with an avid online fanbase. Ten years later, her witty observations and fabulously rendered characters have been brought together in one immensely entertaining collection. Featuring both viral favorites and never-before-seen comics created exclusively for this book, Life with Horses Is Never Orderly offers endless laughs and on-point commentary about the equestrian world and those insane enough to fumble along within it, knowing full well absolutely nothing is within their control. With plenty of evergreen humor that always applies, hot topics and seasonal hits, and cartoons inspired by current events in the “outside world” that some equestrians are willing to admit actually does exist, readers will find hundreds of reasons to feel good about all the bad decisions they've probably made because they “love horses,” and a whole lot to laugh about.

Read more less

In 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.

Read more less

Christoph 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.

Read more less

The equine hoof is a complex marvel of natural engineering, built to withstand tremendous forces and able to adapt to an astonishing range of environmental conditions. It also changes daily—for better or for worse—in response to external and internal factors. Few horse owners have the opportunity to acquire a deep understanding of the hoof, which limits their ability to advocate on their horses' behalf and make informed decisions about hoof care and management. This book is the first resource of its kind to combine the most current and useful information available, gleaned from the research and wisdom of top hoof experts around the world, with a unique 'hands-on' approach. The authors provide basic terms and anatomy, clearly illustrate the differences between healthy and unhealthy feet, discuss biomechanics and management concerns, and cover the causes, treatments, and prevention of commonly encountered problems, including laminitis, white line disease, and thrush. Along the way, readers are given activities to help them better analyse and understand the most important aspects of equine hoof health, such as hoof balance, depth of sole, and point of breakover. Easy–to–follow language, over 400 full–colour photographs, and do–it–yourself exercises promise to empower horse owners and caretakers of all experience levels with the tools they need to accurately assess hoof health and keep their horses as sound and happy as possible.

Read more less

One of the secrets to keeping horses sound, reducing injuries, and enabling them to reach peak performance, whatever their discipline, is careful consideration of the surfaces on which they are trained and conditioned. Intentional steps must be taken to create the ideal conditions with the biomechanics of the horse and specific demands of the sport in mind.The good news is that decades of study and millions of dollars have been put into the development of best practices at the highest levels of Western, English, and racing competition, and in this meticulously researched book, horse industry veteran Abigail Boatwright boils it all down into a set of guidelines that anyone can use to improve their ground at home. Whether you''re starting with an empty field or renovating an existing arena, the expertise Boatwright has gathered will help you make sure the riding and training space you have is the very best it can be: safe for both horse and rider, functional and correct for your chosen e

Read more less

The art of long-reining (long-lining)directing the horse from the ground with two extended reins to reach the trainer''s handsis incredibly beneficial for both horse and rider. It provides a means of conditioning a young horse before he is strong enough to support a rider. It is a way to rehabilitate a horse who may be coming back into work after extended time off. It can be a safe alternative for schooling an animal with behavioral challenges that make riding dangerous. And of course, it is wonderful preparation for both riding and driving, as it teaches the horse to respond to the rein and voice aids, and it provides the handler with an understanding of the horse''s body language, comprehension of the lesson, and reactions to training challenges.If long-reining is an essential building block in a horse''s training, this book is the essential building block in every horse person''s education. In these pages, the world''s long-reining maestro, Wilfried Gehrmann, provides the basics to

Read more less

Veterinarian, lecturer, radio personality, and Idahoan-by-way-of-Texas (and other places) Dr. Madison Seamans shares a wonderful collection of stories from over 30 years in an equine veterinary practice and a lifetime of working with horses and their ever-surprising barnmates. Through ready humor and with a keen eye for calling out the particular peculiarities of horse people and horses alike, Dr. Seamans aims to teach readers how to be with and care for horses, promoting the health and happiness of all with lessons laced in laughter. Entertaining and educational by turns, this unique memoir is for anyone who loves animals (and some who just don't know it yet). Dr. Seamans' tales, both small and tall, are grouped in horse-centric categories and well-stocked with essential information delivered in a creative and highly enjoyable way. The reader climbs into the truck alongside the doc and drives off to aid horses with wounds, stomach aches, allergies, and bizarre behaviors, as well as those in severe physical distress. Quite by accident, you'll find yourself familiar with and understanding common equine medical problems and how they are diagnosed and treated, all while marveling at the remarkable situations a country veterinarian can find himself in. Playful yet serious, honest yet tongue-in-cheek, this wonderfully written book is an up-close look at a well-lived rural life that is about as authentic as America gets. No one who cares a whit for the animal kingdom, and the humans who dare enter it, will be disappointed.

Read more less

In this fantastically detailed and uniquely organised reference, readers 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. Not only is each movement clearly defined, but explanations include common mistakes and how to avoid them, as well as 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 customise 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.

Read more less

Codependency, a compulsive behaviour sometimes known as ‘relationship addiction’, is often characterised by a dysfunctional, one-sided relationship that is emotionally destructive— or even abusive.For years Susan Conley found herself trapped: married to an addict whose health, welfare, and safety she valued far above her own.Over time she watched as she lost contact with her own needs, desires, and sense of self. But then, at forty-two, after yet another crisis came to an anticlimactic resolution that left nothing healed and little to hope for, she decided, having never so much as touched a horse, to take up riding.Here, with humour and honesty, Conley chronicles her experiences, sharing how her pledge to rediscover herself following her divorce was all at once aided, abetted, and challenged by the horses in her life. ‘They were as large a part of my recovery as any of the self-help books I read, personal development workshops I did, and 12-step meetings I attended,' she writes. ‘The struggle to heal the wounds of a dysfunctional marriage was actually made easier with the real wounds received from horseback riding.'Many Brave Fools explores the ways in which horses enriched Conley’s life, and how the process of making herself into a rider also helped her become the person she most wanted to be: not the ‘ex-wife of an addict’, but a responsive, confident courageous woman, entering the prime of her life.

Read more less

Offering a wide variety of ideas to spice up training routines, this handbook provides fresh exercises for practicing classical-riding basics. Dressage fundamentals are indispensable for keeping a horse fit and healthy, but forcing them to go through the same movements over and over while working in the arena can lead to boredom. This guide provides upbeat patterns and exercises that take the necessary task of essential schooling and add variety and challenge to everyday workouts, beat the dressage practice blues, and get the job done. Equestrians looking for new tools to add to their training arsenal and those looking to create a supple and gymnasticized horse will delight in this fun collection of practice routines and photographs.

Read more less

Fergus, the cartoon horse with an international following – now a bona fide social media star – is back! Following up the immensely popular 2015 release of the rollicking comic-strip treasury The Essential Fergus the Horse, this new book explores the rise and mass acceptance of natural horsemanship training techniques via a comical conversation between Fergus and 'The Lad', a young boy who is determined to ride him. Hilariously expressive illustrations and clever verse depict the dialogue between horse and human as The Lad maintains his amiable approach, regardless of Fergus' doubtful reactions and claim of equine superiority. Both endlessly entertaining and intentionally educational, Fergus: A Horse to Be Reckoned With is certain to inspire laughter in adult readers while making a positive impression on young, would-be equestrians.

Read more less