For over a quarter of a century, Colonel Alois Podhajsky was the Director of the Spanish Riding School in Vienna, home of the famous white Lipizzaner stallions whose remarkable performances have thrilled audiences throughout the world. Now for the first time, Col. Podhajsky has set forth explicitly and in practical, instructive fashion the step-by-step methods of training both horse and rider that are used at the School and that are the applicable foundations of all good horsemanship, for their purpose is to develop the natural abilities of the horse and to make riding a graceful, pleasurable experience.

Loch demonstrates her keen insight into the relationship of horse and rider in this concise, easy to understand guide to classical riding. Written for riders across the spectrum of skill and experience, this book is an invaluable tool for those who wish to improve their own and their horses' performance and experience.

Out of print for more than 20 years, this classic book on equitation introduces and explains the art of riding. Updated with all new color photography of contemporary riders and horses, it includes details on training the rider, schooling the horse, cross-country riding, dressage exercises, and jumping techniques. It expertly provides a wealth of practical knowledge and experience and concisely lays down rules and guidelines that are as applicable today as when the book was written more than 70 years ago. Beginners and experts alike will find the instructions easy to follow and will benefit from the essential theoretical background provided here but so often overlooked in modern riding.

"The first edition of The Principles of Riding was published more than 50 years ago, imparting mandatory basic knowledge for all areas of equestrian sport and horse-keeping and this 28th edition, Basic Training for Horse and Rider, has been completely revised regarding language and content, while still taking into account the well-established principles. The consideration of traditional principles leads to the education and training of the horse according to its nature and thus to its health, well-being and performance capability. The horse's instincts and natural behaviour are presented in detail as the basis of communication and understanding between horse and rider. Modern scientific research relating to training theory and biomechanics has influenced the systematic training of the rider as well as that of the horse. The Principles of Riding provides versatile, practical assistance to horse lovers and readers of this book who want to learn, irrespective of whether they ride for leisure or competitively, are interested in hacking or hunting, or want to develop and improve their basic training for dressage, show-jumping or eventing. These Principles should be indispensable for all riders, drivers, trainers and judges, and to all of those who are interested in the appropriate training of the horse, according to the horse's nature, and who place importance on a harmonious cooperation between horse and rider." -- Amazon.com.

How to Understand Your Horse to Become a Better Rider To move in harmony with a horse, you must first understand the animal's mind and develop a deep appreciation for its natural movement. In The Classical Rider, celebrated equestrian author Sylvia Loch unlocks the history and philosophy of classical riding, explaining the anatomy, physiology, and psychology of the horse to its rider. Equal parts instructional guide, sports history lesson, and spiritual meditation, this classic manual conveys important dressage concepts to help you find the proper balance and body position with clearly illustrated techniques and visualizations. More than a standard how-to manual, with easy and accessible prose, Loch presents memoir-style stories and anecdotes from her own equestrian experiences. Drawing upon her ten years spent in Portugal and Great Britain, as well as colorful lessons learned from years of teaching, she makes it clear that to become a better rider, you must consider the anatomy and physiology of the horse, how they move, and how they think. She reveals how a horse's movements relate to and express the laws of nature. The possibilities of better communication with horses have spiritual overtones for Loch as well, who considers the horse a beautiful creation and gift from God. This book is a your key resource to improve your riding and establish a stronger connection with your horse. Written for all levels of rider, reading The Classical Rider is like getting your own personal riding lesson. Equestrians of all levels will also enjoy reading Sylvia Loch's other books, such as Invisible Riding, The Royal Horse of Europe, Dressage in Lightness, The Classical Seat, and Dressage: The Art of Classical Riding.

Classical equestrianism represents the basis of all other equestrian disciplines. It serves exclusively to keep the horse healthy, strengthen it and help it develop into an attractive and expressive personality.

Acclaimed author and riding instructor Sylvia Loch presents THE comprehensive reference source for dressage enthusiasts. Dressage chronicles the origin and development of every aspect of classical horsemanship, covering everything from the beginnings of the art in ancient Greece to the current state of competition in modern times. Over 100 photos.