The principles of riding : the official instruction handbook of the German National Equestrian Federation

by German National Equestrian Federation

This classic teaching manual provides a complete basic instruction course for horse and rider using the German training system - a system that has consistently produced international champions for many decades. Contents Dress and Equipment, The Rider's Seat and Position, The Aids and How to Apply Them, Basic Schooling Exercises and Dressage Movements, Jumping Exercises for the Rider, Cross-Country Riding and Jumping, The Horse's Development and Behavior, Basic Gaits, Initial Handling and Backing, Training Programs for the Horse, Riding in Competitions. This edition of Book 1 has been fully revised and re-illustrated. Copyright 1997.

Genres: Horses, Reference, Nonfiction

176 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1985

Reviews

[Ann Keller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book for the young or inexperienced rider! This is the English translation of the Official Instruction Handbook of the German Equestrian Federation. Within its pages, the new rider will find hundreds of useful aids as he begins to learn how to ride.

The rider is instructed on the proper training center and instructor, as well as preparing the arena and the horse for riding. Attention is given to the tack, rider's correct form of dress, putting on the saddle and bridle, types of bridles, correct and incorrect saddle positions and how to lead a horse into the arena. A young horse may begin his training at approximately three years of age and may at first be accompanied by one or two older horses to help him learn better.

The rider's seat is all important, as well as additional aids given with the legs. The new rider will find a host of instruction and diagrams on achieving his/her correct seat, which will allow the horse to move freely and also not tire out the rider's leg muscles. Once a good seat has been achieved, the new rider can move on to basic dressage movements, such as the walk, trot, canter, rein-back, turning in circles or at a halt.

Jumping and cross-country riding are two unique types of riding which should only be undertaken once both horse and rider are up to speed. This handbook goes into detail instructing the rider how to work over cavaletti, jumping single or multiple fences, as well as the additional equipment and changes in seat necessary for riding cross-country.

I most enjoyed learning about how the horse is constructed and how the riding positions enable the horse to move more freely. I now know that I have seen a host of very poor riders, ones who provide the horse with too much rein or, even worst, pull his head up in their own nervousness. This can (and frequently does) lead to disaster, unseating the rider and allowing the young horse to run free. A free horse is a danger to all of the other horses and riders. Step-by-step instruction with an accomplished instructor, as well as the many aids in this book, should enable the new rider to achieve a good seat, as well as a unique and marvelous working relationship with the horse of his choice. Well done, indeed.

[Farah Kalaji · Rating 5 out of 5]

If there is more than 5 stars to give, I would blindly give it to this book! It gives a basic understanding about the true nature of both rider and the horse covering various areas in the field of riding as the rider's training,& horse's training, and it gives some tips a rider should know beforehand obout competitions. It has been a great deal of help to me as I feel it could complement my practical riding training.

[Despoina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Has great advice but I found it hard to read. It's not supposed to make you get lost in the book but I think it could've been better

[Ann K · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book when i started riding. It has a lot of good info and i recommend it to all of the horse lovers out there. :)

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book that gives the basics for correct riding. It's not just for beginners, but also a fantastic reference to tool.

[Regina Ripamonti · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you looking for an authoritative book on riding...this is it. Not faddish. Well written and illustrated. It's almost worn out and needing to be replaced with a new copy.

[M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent