Gymnastic Training for Horse and Rider: Using a Mind, Body, Spirit Approach

This title provides an in depth guide to the riding and training of horses, but with a difference. The methods discussed involve a mind, body, spirit approach which is applied equally to horse and rider. The training itself is based on the classical training pyramid for horses - working up through rhythm, suppleness, contact, impulsion and straightness to collection - as defined by the German National Equestrian Federation. The author combines this system with her own "mind-body-spirit training building blocks" to address first the riders development and then the horse's, taking each of these desired training attributes and working progressively up the pyramid. For the rider, this includes working on body fitness and control through the Pilates exercise system; and for the horse, gymnastic work to improve suppleness and balance.

Betsy Steiner is an International Grand Prix Dressage rider and busy trainer who has herself trained with such as George Theoderescu, Egon Von Meindorff, Herbert Rehbein and Klaus Balkenhol