40 Fundamentals of English Riding

Becoming an effective equestrian requires great attention to the subtleties of movement, both of the rider and the horse. In 40 Fundamentals of English Riding, noted teacher and trainer Hollie H. McNeil offers in-depth instruction on 40 basic elements essential to all riders interested in the classic riding disciplines of dressage, jumping, and eventing. Each fundamental is defined and explained in text and photos, with an emphasis on how to avoid the most common errors. The text is further illuminated by a 90-minute DVD showing action sequences of each exercise, organized according to the same progression used in the text. The 40 fundamentals include correct seat, leg, and hand positions for the rider; the three basic gaits of walk, trot, and canter; how to perform halt and half-halt; how to direct a horse's movement correctly and energetically; the stages of the training scale (rhythm, looseness, contact, impulsion, straightness, and collection); and how to perform basic schooling figures in the arean, from circles and serpentines to diagonals. Riders of all levels will appreciate the complete program of essential techniques covered in this detailed, clearly explained approach. With its combination of succinct text descriptions, up-close photos of key details, and a coordinated DVD showing each lesson performed in real time, 40 Fundamentals of English Riding is the perfect training companion for equestrians seeking to refine their skills, improve their performance, and strengthen their ability to communicate with horses.