Anatomy of Dressage
Anatomy of Dressage

Author: Heinrich Schusdziarra

Publisher: Trafalgar Square

Published: 2004

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13: 9780939481699

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Only with a working knowledge of human anatomy can a rider fully understand the instructions given for correct position in the saddle and explanations of the movements. Originally published in Germany and previously published in English as Anatomy of Riding, Anatomy of Dressage presents a clear overview of anatomy as it relates to riding, written for the layman. Working from this anatomical perspective, the authors, who in addition to being father and son are also medical doctors, discuss the individual requirements of riding theory. Many of their conclusions may be surprising to readers, such as the notion that it is physically impossible to "brace the lower back" as we are so often advised by instructors. An absolutely fascinating read, Anatomy of Dressage is required reading for the USDF's Instructor Certification program.

Tug of War: Classical Versus "Modern" Dressage
Tug of War: Classical Versus

Author: Gerd Heuschmann

Publisher: Trafalgar Square Books

Published: 2024-01-23

Total Pages: 234

ISBN-13: 1646012585

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German rider and equine veterinarian Dr. Gerd Heuschmann is well-known in dressage circles—admired for his plain speaking regarding what he deems the incorrect and damaging training methods commonly employed by riders and trainers involved in competition today. Here, he presents an intelligent and thought-provoking exploration of both classical and "modern" training methods, including "hyperflexion" (also known as Rollkur), against a practical backdrop of the horse's basic anatomy and physiology. In a detailed yet comprehensible fashion, Dr. Heuschmann describes parts of the horse's body that need to be correctly developed by the dressage rider. He then examines how they function both individually and within an anatomical system, and how various schooling techniques affect these parts for the good, or for the bad. Using vivid color illustrations of the horse's skeletal system, ligaments, and musculature, in addition to comparative photos depicting "correct" versus "incorrect" movement—and most importantly, photos of damaging schooling methods—Dr. Heuschmann convincingly argues that the horse's body tells us whether our riding is truly gymnasticizing and "building the horse up," or simply wearing it down and tearing it apart. He then outlines his ideal "physiological education" of the horse. Training should mirror the mental and physical development of the horse, fulfilling "classical" requirements—such as regularity of the three basic gaits, suppleness, and acceptance of the bit—rather than disregarding time-tested values for quick fixes that could lead to the degradation of the horse's well-being. Dr. Heuschmann's assertion that the true objectives of dressage schooling must never be eclipsed by simple "mechanical perfection" is certain to inspire riders at all levels to examine their riding, their riding goals, and the techniques they employ while pursuing them.

The Anatomy of Riding
The Anatomy of Riding

Author: Sara Wyche

Publisher: Crowood Press (UK)

Published: 2003-05-06

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13: 9781861266248

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Explores the relationship between horse and rider.

The Rider Forms the Horse
The Rider Forms the Horse

Author: Udo Bürger

Publisher:

Published: 2006

Total Pages: 120

ISBN-13: 9783885424888

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In this book, first published in 1939, the authors set out clearly and precisely the requirements for successful training, and for the long and healthy life of the riding horse. The authors explain the physiological facts which are the foundation of riding instruction and discuss how to identify and rectify training problems.

Centered Riding
Centered Riding

Author: Sally Swift

Publisher: Macmillan

Published: 1985-01-15

Total Pages: 216

ISBN-13: 9780312127343

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Widely known for her innovative teaching philosophy stressing body awareness, the value of "soft eyes," proper breathing, centering, and balance, Sally Swift has been a pioneering riding instructor for half a century. In book form for the first time, her methods enable horse and rider to achieve harmony, working together naturally, without pain. Unlike traditional teachers, Sally Swift does not believe in forced training techniques that cause stiff bodies and tense riding. Instead, through the use of vivid, unusual, and highly creative images that transcend mechanics ("Pretend you're a spruce tree; the roots grow down from your center as the trunk grows up"), plus a thorough knowledge of human and equine anatomy, this wise and inspiring teacher enables the conscientious equestrian to reassess habitual responses, in order to ride in natural positions, break through frustrating plateaus, and achieve ever-rising goals with comfort, vitality, and precision. Precise illustrations and photographs never before used in riding books explain anatomy and image work to give mind and body new and relaxed approaches to the inner process of riding. Centered Riding is for those with little experience all the way up to world class.

Way to Perfect Horsemanship
Way to Perfect Horsemanship

Author: Udo Burger

Publisher: Trafalgar Square Books

Published: 2012-02-01

Total Pages: 347

ISBN-13: 1570766118

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First published in 1959, The Way to Perfect Horsemanship was immediately recognized as a classic work of equestrian literature. It offers insight into the psychology of the horse as well as its muscular system and the mechanics of movement. It explains in detail the basic principles of training, the fundamentals of riding, and the effect of training aids. Everyone, from trainers to occasional riders, will benefit from this book.

The Dressage Seat
The Dressage Seat

Author: Anja Beran

Publisher: Trafalgar Square Books

Published: 2021-07-07

Total Pages: 396

ISBN-13: 1646011236

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With stunningly beautiful photographs and clear descriptions, classical dressage authority Anja Beran breaks down the physical requirements of the rider's seat on the horse, as well as its responsibilities during various movements—from the gaits and paces to lateral work, lead changes, piaffe, passage, and pirouettes. Beran provides a unique perspective on the use of breath when riding, citing the recommendations of a classically-trained opera singer who regularly works with Beran and her riding students to develop their deep breathing skills. “A relaxed seat,” Beran says, “is never possible with restricted breathing.” In addition, she explores the need for an improved inner attitude in order to truly refine your seat on a horse. Fear, stress, and tension all interfere with your ability to focus on the horse and connect with him during the time you are together. Simple practices can help open and calm the mind, and over time, contribute to an overall better outlook and enhanced physical capacity. In the second half of the book, Beran is joined by her personal physiotherapist and dance teacher for an in-depth look at human anatomy and how it functions in conjunction with the horse. Practical exercises give readers easy ways to improve mobility, strength, stability, coordination, perception, and overall posture, with superb results.

Rider Biomechanics
Rider Biomechanics

Author: Mary Wanless

Publisher:

Published: 2017

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13: 9781910016145

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Rider Biomechanics is a collaboration between rider biomechanics coach Mary Wanless and functional anatomist Thomas Myers. Myer's seminal book Anatomy Trains explains how connective tissue joins muscles together into functional chains. Some of these chains extend from head to toe, and they are the 'lines of pull'. Elite riders excel in balancing the tension in their lines, creating a stable balanced structure which can transmit and redirect the forces of the horse's movement. Easy, fluid, sitting eludes less skilled riders - but this book, with its copious photographs and illustrations, provides a route map for reorganising 'lines of pull', sitting, and influence on one's horse. It is through balancing one's own lines that you learn how to balance one's horse, changing his carriage and movement, and discovering the secrets of the few talented riders who naturally possess those skills.

Posture and Performance
Posture and Performance

Author: Gillian Higgins

Publisher:

Published: 2015-12-01

Total Pages: 160

ISBN-13: 9781921966965

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From the author of the hugely successful titles How Your Horse Moves and Horse Anatomy for Performance, comes a completely different training manual, also based on the Horses Inside Out philosophy: 'Understanding Anatomy Improves Performance and Reduces the Risk of Injury'. Divided into three main parts: Principles of Anatomical Riding and Training; Exercises for Horse and Rider; Troubleshooting, the book contains a wealth of practical tips and exercises broken down into easy to follow, well-illustrated steps showing how riders can improve their riding skills and potential.The author suggests ways to improve horses' physique, posture, flexibility, stability, core strength, performance and movement and how to reduce muscular and movement problems, and reduce the risk of injury.

Horse Anatomy
Horse Anatomy

Author: Peter C. Goody

Publisher: Ja Allen

Published: 2000

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13: 9780851317694

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This second edition of Horse Anatomy: A Pictorial Approach to Equine Structure has been completely revised and enlarged. Its original 25 pages of illustrations have more than doubled and now include over 250 individual drawings. All of these drawings have been specially prepared for this new edition by John Goody, and all are fully labelled and annotated in the accompanying legends. The text is primarily intended to explain and in many instances to expand upon the content of the drawings. The basic make-up of the horse is considered with the 'points' of the horse being shown from several different views. Bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments providing the anatomical basis for these surface points are dealt with in some detail, the emphasis being placed throughout on those structures that can be seen or felt from the surface of the body. Component parts of the digestive, respiratory, urinary and reproductive systems are shown in a number of the drawings, as are nerves and blood vessels. Special consideration is given to the structure of the head, with the emphasis on the nasal cavity, teeth, larynx and guttural pouches. The structure of the limbs is also illustrated in considerable detail, especially the foot, and reference is made to injuries and diseases that can result in poor conformation. The wealth of information contained in the book will be of great interest and value to veterinary and equine studies students, to owners, riders and breeders - in fact anyone requiring to know more about the structure of the horse and what makes it one of the most beautiful of animals.