Over thirty years after the first publication of Reiner Klimke's classic work comes this new fourth edition, with completely new photos and updated by his daughter, Ingrid. Based on sound practical and theoretical advice, this instructional handbook gives advice on establishing a specific training plan for recreational riders as well as competition riders to enable them to train their young horses successfully. Every aspect of the education of a young horse is covered, including: basic education and handling from foalhood; lungeing and free-schooling; backing and training under saddle; developing impulsion from suppleness; assessing and improving basic gaits; cavalletti work; jumping training; cross-country training and, finally, preparing for the first competition.

This practical guide shows how international eventer, Pippa Funnell - well-known for her ability to get the best out of the youngsters she rides - builds a successful bond with the young horse. Using Pippa's personal experience and specially commissioned photographs of the on-going training of her own horses, every step of the training process is covered, from assessing potential to backing through to the first competition and beyond. Every rider, whatever their discipline, wants a rewarding partnership with their horse, and this book aims to show them how to lay the essential groundwork.

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.

In 20 lessons, each building on the previous one, use stress-free conditioned-response techniques to teach an equine youngster groundwork basics. Build skills, confidence, trust, and communication. Lay a strong foundation for future under-saddle work in all disciplines.

Presents ground training exercises for every horse and handler, including catching, yielding, turning, sacking out, backing, long lining, doing obstacle work, and more.

Horse trainer Jonathan Field has made a name for himself with his unique ability to give people simple, understandable, doable steps that lead to working with a horse “at liberty” in a safe and progressive manner. True engagement with a horse at liberty isn’t just about removing tack and stepping outside the arena—it’s about connection, trust, and communication through movement. Enrich your relationship with your horse, improve your “feel,” and teach your horse to respond to the subtlest of cues; no matter your discipline, whether you compete or ride for pleasure, liberty training can change the way you interact with horses forever.

Finally, a revitalized version of the well-known classic by one of the world's most successful riders! Reiner Klimke, winner of six Olympic gold medels, covers the early education of the foal, longeing and freework, progessive training under saddle, and eventually preparation for competition. Now furnished with new color photos and helpful tips from his daughter, Ingrid--an international event rider--Klimke's book is poised to continue on as the modern standard on horse training.