Note: Books are categorized by
experience levels 1, 2, and 3. This is to help you determine which books
are appropriate for your experience. Levels are explained on
the Riding School.
From novice to advanced, this book
explains the principles of classical riding. It discusses the classical
position, correct application of the aids and their effect on the horse,
outline and correct carriage of the horse, putting the horse on the aids,
bending and lateral suppleness, and lateral exercises.
(Read
more)
Carl Shares his training system and
philosophy - in pictures and in his own words. Follow his training system
as he works with different horses at different levels and adapts his
training to suit each horse's personality. 150 color photos.
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more)
Charles de Kunffy explains the rationale for
training the horse and the methodology for doing so correctly, placing great
emphasis on the importance of suppleness and collection, which lead to athletic
development. Enhanced with 50 color photos.
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more)
While it deals comprehensively with all the
technical aspects of training, from breaking to the most advanced
movements, the book also offers many examples of the author’s philosophy:
to view riding and training essentially as an art form. (Read
more)
The six elements of the
training scale are explained thoroughly in this
practical and beautifully illustrated book. Learn the
theory behind dressage training and discover how simple
it is to progress through the levels. (Read
more)
Both beginning and advanced trainers
and riders will learn why the elements of the training
scale exist, how to develop them in a horse, and even
when not to use them. Starting with the basics, and
moving on towards the most subtle aspects, this is the
complete guide to the art of training and riding a
horse. (Read
more)
This is the best book on cavalletti to date. Packed with step-by-step information and illustrations, it will help any rider or trainer improve their horse's athletic ability. Written by dressage legend Dr. Reiner Klimke.
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more)
The amount of elaboration in this book about the true basics of classical riding makes it by far one of the best available dressage books on the market. The title of the book very much explains what it is about - the formula that will help you reach new heights with your horse.
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more)
Lendon Gray helps riders of all
sports and levels improve and enjoy daily training with
her simple, down–to–earth approach to building riding
skills. Lessons begin with the rider’s position and
progress through working on contact, putting the horse
on the aids, perfecting transitions, and, for some
healthy variety, cavaletti, basic trail work, and
competition training.
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more)
Warm, sympathetic, and based on the solid
foundations that lead to true success in the sport, this
book is must reading! In clearly worked out and
easy to understand chapters, Walter takes you through
each step of the training stages, discusses problems
that occur, and assists with competent, sensible
corrections, from Beginner to becoming a Master.
Everything from starting a young horse to piaffe
pirouttes is covered.
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more)
Author offers clear instruction on his
unique methods of starting young horses as well as re–schooling those that
lack a good training foundation. Using techniques both on the ground and
under saddle, Schaffer reveals the key to success—teaching the horse to
soften and move into the rider’s hand. (Read
more)
Explains how in-hand work builds trust,
obedience, and balance in the horse, and complements work under saddle.
With clear explanations and abundant color photos and drawings, all the
techniques of schooling in hand are covered, including aids and their
application; work on the longe; long reining; suppling and collection;
shoulder-in and half-pass, piaffe and passage; the Spanish
walk; and even airs above the ground. (Read
more)
Focuses on the meaning and usefulness of patterns in riding in the respected dressage tradition. First book devoted entirely to classical manege exercises which are ridden to supple, strengthen and, when necessary, correct. Illustrated with 35 photos and 38 diagrams. (Read
more)
A clear, concise, and practical guide to dressage for both the novice and the expert rider. Charles De Kunffy is a master of classical riding and in this book, he explains all its aspects down to the smallest detail. (Read
more)
In this memoir, Priscilla shares the ups and downs of her learning experience and the many challenges of her new surroundings. She writes of the numerous relationships that affected her stay in Germany: her connection with her teacher, her horse, other riders, and the local people. The author's voice is honest, intimate, and spiced with humor. This is a voyage of discovery on many levels. (Read
more)
An indispensable guide to balanced
riding that has proven itself time and time again. In
straightforward language, Sally offers practical
exercises and creative imagery to help riders achieve
perfect union with their horses. (Read
more)