This work contains 101 jumping exercises every horse and rider should know, from the simplest skills to the most complex techniques. It starts with basic work over and around poles to help horse and rider establish and maintain a dialogue with each other. Exercises progress in complexity teaching the rider correct technique, balance and confidence. It provides fresh perspectives on how to achieve and hold on to the competitive edge, and includes guest exercises by leading equestrians such as Missy Clark, Hap Hansen and James Wofford.
I used this book as a text for classes I taught at William Woods University in the Division of Equestrian Studies since it was first published in 2002. Start on page 1, follow the suggestions and exercises written within and you will have a horse and rider who can accomplish more than they thought they could when you get to the end! Linda Allen is recognized internationally as a world class horsewoman, trainer, and advocate of the horse.
A great book for not only diagrams to make courses but also lists what you should pay attention to for each particular course (in terms of how to ride it). I've been told that 101 Dressage Exercises is a great one too :)
Excellent reference book, primarily for gymnastic exercises. There are a breadth of exercises, starting from single poles for the baby horses, up to more complicated exercises to help more experienced horses and riders with different concepts.
My only complaint is that previous exercises are often referenced as far as setup and distances. There was plenty of room in the "Setup" section to put in the specifics of setting up each exercise, rather than making the reading have to flip back through the pages to previous exercises and their setup info.
Ha. Yes, I am really reading (or rather, studying) this book. I'm riding a whole lot now, and I'm finding myself jumping solo a lot so I need ideas for courses. This book has great ideas for courses that target all sorts of training needs. Just wish those jumps weren't so darn heavy.
Good book to have at a hunter/jumper barn even if the facility is not super competitive. Great ideas for gymnastics. Useful for someone starting from square one with a horse and also for the intermediate types.