The principles of Academic Horse Training apply to all horses and all training. Developed over decades by Australians Dr Andrew and Manuela McLean, and combining a unique mix of zoology, psychology, elite level competition experience and international coaching, this revolutionary work is the first ever horse training system that is evidence-based (founded on objective, scientific research rather than opinion) and therefore ethical (conflict-free), sustainable (works for all horses) and efficient (accelerates learning to optimal levels). This book is an essential addition to the knowledge base of anyone interested in training their horse more humanely. The evidence-based principles are proven and are used successfully by elite competitors through to pleasure riders throughout the world. Professionally produced and presented by Nicki Stuart, student of Academic Horse Training, equestrian journalist and coach. This beautifully designed, full colour book, stands apart from any other horse training resource.

A must-read book for anyone looking for an ethical, yet effective way to train horses.

An eye-opening game-changer of a book that sheds new light on how horses learn, think, perceive, and perform, and explains how to work with the horse’s brain instead of against it. In this illuminating book, brain scientist and horsewoman Janet Jones describes human and equine brains working together. Using plain language, she explores the differences and similarities between equine and human ways of negotiating the world. Mental abilities—like seeing, learning, fearing, trusting, and focusing—are discussed from both human and horse perspectives. Throughout, true stories of horses and handlers attempting to understand each other—sometimes successfully, sometimes not—help to illustrate the principles. Horsemanship of every kind depends on mutual interaction between equine and human brains. When we understand the function of both, we can learn to communicate with horses on their terms instead of ours. By meeting horses halfway, we achieve many goals. We improve performance. We save valuable training time. We develop much deeper bonds with our horses. We handle them with insight and kindness instead of force or command. We comprehend their misbehavior in ways that allow solutions. We reduce the human mistakes we often make while working with them. Instead of working against the horse’s brain, expecting him to function in unnatural and counterproductive ways, this book provides the information needed to ride with the horse’s brain. Each principle is applied to real everyday issues in the arena or on the trail, often illustrated with true stories from the author’s horse training experience. Horse Brain, Human Brain offers revolutionary ideas that should be considered by anyone who works with horses.

A practical guide to using reward-based training techniques to create a true partnership with your horse. This leads to lifelong connection, effective problem-solving and joyful performance.

- NEW full-color photographs depict external clinical signs, allowing more accurate clinical recognition. - NEW and improved imaging techniques maximize your ability to assess equine performance. - UPDATED drug information is presented as it applies to treatment and to new regulations for drug use in the equine athlete. - NEW advances in methods of transporting equine athletes ensure that the amount of stress on the athlete is kept to a minimum. - NEW rehabilitation techniques help to prepare the equine athlete for a return to the job. - Two NEW authors, Dr. Catherine McGowan and Dr. Kenneth McKeever, are highly recognized experts in the field.

Effective horse trainers strive to improve the performance of their horses while preserving the integrity of the musculoskeletal apparatus. Biomechanics and Physical Training of the Horse supplies an anatomical and functional overview of the topic, enabling trainers to optimize the different exercises their horses undergo during training and competition. Following a brief description of the biomechanics of the muscles underlying equine movement, the book discusses the muscles of the forelimb, hindlimb, and neck and trunk. These fundamentals have direct bearing on the later chapters, which focus on training and the core exercises for a horse. This text is illustrated throughout by the author’s top-quality photographs, diagrams, and his own beautiful anatomical drawings. The book is of lasting value to all professionals and well-informed amateurs who work with horses: veterinarians, trainers and riders, researchers, physical therapists, and educators in equine courses.