Equitation Science together with classical riding is today probably the most humane, effective, and practical way of training and enjoying the horse, competitive or not. To avoid getting involved is to accede to the status quo. Our horses deserve better. ~Sharon E. Cregier, Ph.D., FIASH (Hon., Edin.), founding member of Equine Behaviour Forum In precise, practical language, Fine Riding describes how to blend the principles of classical riding with the modern findings of Equitation Science, demonstrating how to put the principles into practice when training and riding horses. The book encompasses the author's lifelong background in authentic classical riding and a 17-year study and practice of Equitation Science. It presents the best of the old with the best of the new, resulting in a unique and rational blend of principles, clearly explained, that enables and encourages readers to train, ride and care for their horses truly effectively and humanely. Applicable to riding of all schools of thought, from hacking to racing, including jumping, McBane's method is more than simply another ‘system’ of riding. It applies the results of rigorous scientific studies to the historical, classical training and riding of horses in an ethical, humane and effective way, explaining the principles in such a way that readers will feel able to put it into effect themselves. This book will encourage horse owners to serve their horses with renewed understanding and commitment.

Whether it be dressage, showjumping, eventing or hobby riding, our common goal is to enjoy riding, treat our horses well and reach personal goals. To demonstrate how highly successful competitive sport can indeed go hand in hand with a close-to-nature, horse-friendly way of caring for and looking after horses, we provide insights into the personal training and stable management concepts of Uta Graef. The authors will show everything that goes into this approach, including, for example, the structure of training, supporting horses in a way which respects their age, as well as general care and behaviour around horses. But you as a rider are also very important! How can you change your attitude towards horses in a positive way? How can you maintain your pleasure in riding or, if lost, win it back? How can it be possible to ride with less stress in future? The stable culture and the way classes and lessons are structured also play an important role in ensuring you enjoy your riding. The authors will show what influences each and every rider can optimise in order to reach the goal of fine riding on motivated horses. The book will encourage you to follow a horse-friendly path towards personal success, adhering to the principles of classical training and, step by step, working up towards your personal goals. This does not necessarily have to be competitive success, but it could also simply be the desire for fine riding on motivated horses. Therefore, the authors of this book wish to emphasise what kind of thought processes and which principles are particularly suitable for a positive influence on fine riding, rather than just listing training movements and the requirements at different levels. It is not a classical textbook, but rather a helpful and pleasant read with many 'behind the scenes' insights for riders of all disciplines and of all levels.

A new edition of a highly respected textbook and reference in the rapidly emerging field of equitation science. Equitation Science, 2nd Edition incorporates learning theory into ethical equine training frameworks suitable for riders of any level and for all types of equestrian activity. Written by international experts at the forefront of the development of the field, the welfare of the horse and rider safety are primary considerations throughout. This edition features a new chapter on research methods, and a companion website provides the images from the book in PowerPoint.