The USDF Guide to Dressage: The Official Guide of the United States Dressage Federation - Hardcover

Bryant, Jennifer O.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1580175295 ISBN 13: 9781580175296

Publisher: Storey Publishing, LLC, 2006

Synopsis

Whatever your primary equestrian discipline, dressage is an ideal way for you to increase your riding awareness and enhance your relationship with your horse. Providing an overview of basic techniques and a series of helpful training exercises, Jennifer O. Bryant stresses the tenets of harmonious communication between horse and rider as she guides you through the graceful movements of dressage. With suggestions on how to find qualified instructors and information on necessary equipment, this comprehensive guide will inspire you to explore this exciting and rewarding world.

About this title

From the Inside Flap

Dressage is a sport of precision and harmony whose participants aspire to meet a rigorous standard of perfection. The classical ballet of horsemanship, dressage is a graceful dance between horse and rider that demands impeccable communication, coordination, and timing. Myriad details, when done well and seamlessly combined, appear effortless and make the horse look his most beautiful.

Dressage requires patience and persistence. When even the slightest progress is made, the result is an especially satisfying day of schooling that may eventually lead to a great score in the show ring. Jennifer Bryant demystifies the discipline of dressage, explaining its intricacies and historical traditions with insight, authority, and the full support of the United States Dressage Foundation.

Beginning with a detailed history of classical horsemanship, Bryant explains the origins of dressage; necessary dressage attire, tack, and equipment; and how best to approach training. She guides you in locating a qualified instructor, then explains what to expect in your first lesson, the importance of the training scale, and the subtleties of the three basic gaits. She also provides a solid overview of basic dressage movements and useful lessons that will help you and your horse learn as a team. Throughout, terms are clearly defined and proper form and technique are emphasized. In addition, Bryant includes out-of-saddle exercises to improve your strength and flexibility and explains common faults and how to avoid them.

Then it's on to the show ring. From finding suitable shows and paying entry fees to proper show etiquette, Bryant offers an insider's guide to dressage competition. Even if you don't ever intend to show, a solid understanding of dressage tests and judging criteria will enhance your training.

Whatever your primary equestrian discipline may be, dressage is an ideal way for you to increase your self-awareness and to enhance your relationship with your horse. It can be a rewarding, lifelong journey. Enjoy every minute!

About the Author

Jennifer O. Bryant is the editor of USDF Connection, the member magazine of the United States Dressage Federation. Her writing has appeared in numerous equestrian publications, including The Horse: Your Guide to Equine Health Care, Paint Horse Journal, and Horse & Rider. She has also produced award-winning Olympic Games and World Equestrian Games blogs for TheHorse.com.

Edition details

• Publisher: Storey Publishing, LLC
• Publication date: 2006
• ISBN 10: 1580175295
• ISBN 13: 9781580175296
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 352