Miguel Tavora emphasizes that through correct, gradual, progressive, logical and systematic gymnastic work, we develop the physical and mental abilities of the horse, so he will find all the activities he is asked easy to perform, and will do it looking as if it was by his own will.

Miguel de Lancastre e Tavora was a master rider, trainer, and instructor. His genuine love and care for the well-being of horses comes through on every page of his magnum opus: Dressage Principles and Techniques. His kind, calm, and methodical approach is laid out in a progressive sequence that adheres strictly to the principles of the FEI."In this book, I will explain the principles which are the objectives of equitation.... Correct principles are governed by nature and logic and proven through practice. I show how to use the aids and gymnastic exercises to achieve goals. Objectivity, simplicity and clarity of all explanations is my first priority. "My philosophy is that the horse's physical and mental development, obtained through gradual, progressive, logical, and systematic gymnastic work, he will do all work with ease because he feels comfortable. He will look as if he is acting on his own accord, and enjoying it." - Miguel Tavora

Training Strategies for Dressage Riders is a unique guide to the art and technique of dressage, written by one of the most renowned equestrian trainers in the world today. It offers a complete training system for both horse and rider, paying special attention to how a rider s actions can influence a mount. The book provides practical, in-the-saddle advice on a wide range of dressage topics, including: * The art of classical equitation * The development of the rider s seat and aids * Developing the basic gaits * Gymnastic improvement * Horse insubordination * Clinics and competitions judging Whether you want to prepare for dressage competition or simply improve your riding skills, this is a matchless guide.

In this beautifully written and richly illustrated book, Charles de Kunffy advocates for uncompromising devotion to the well-being of horses. Riding must be restorative and therapeutic prior to schooling horses to gymnastic excellence.

James Fillis' classic work Principes de Dressage et d'Equitation originally written in French was translated into English in 1902 by Mathew Horrace Hayes and came to be known under the title of Breaking and Riding. This faithful Xenophon Press edition, restores the title to its clear meaning: Principles of Dressage and Equitation. In the interest of preserving this title forever, Xenophon Press has painstakingly reformatted the text and illustrations in a convenient, well laid out format including all of the text and imagery, unlike lesser facsimile copies on the market."My method of equitation consists in distribution of weight by the height of the neck bent at the poll and not at the withers; propulsion by means of the hocks being brought under the body; and lightness by the loosening of the lower jaw. When we know this, we know everything, and we know nothing. We know everything, because these principles are of universal application; and we know nothing, because they have to be applied practically. "Practice cannot be taught in a book; but I will try to set forth principles." - JAMES FILLIS. "Having fortunately had many opportunities of seeing Mr. Fillis ride both in Germany and at the St. Petersburg Cavalry Riding School, where he is Ecuyer en chef, I can fully endorse the correctness of the good opinion held about him by his most enthusiastic admirers. "With extremely few exceptions, school riders abuse their power, and sacrifice freedom of movement to exaggerated control, with the result, in many cases, of getting their animals behind their bits and straining their hocks. Such men ride in a mechanical manner, which is inelegant in a school...and is entirely unsuited for work in the open. Mr. Fillis, on the contrary, acting on his motto "en avant" (ride forward), has succeeded in showing how a horse can be made clever in his movements, without in any way diminishing his usefulness on the road or over a country. I therefore trust that all English-speaking horsemen...will profit by the valuable instruction which he now puts before them." - M. H. HAYES, translator:

"This book is a must have . . . it really inspires you to greater things and encourages you to believe that anything is possible if you follow the book step-by-step!" —www.horsecity.co.uk