Two Brains, One Aim: A Riding Coach's Key Concepts for Bringing Horse and Rider Together (and Ending in Success)

'This book will be an incredible help and reference point for any equestrian.' - Ian Stark, OBE (Winner of Four Olympic Silver Medals in Eventing and Cross-Country Course Designer)

Every horse person strives to grow in ability and understanding over time, whether in the saddle, on the ground, or in the stable, whether in ways that are small or those that are significant. This effort, when done right, lasts a lifetime, and along the way requires the addition of knowledge and experience gleaned from numerous others. Where does one find leadership within the equine industry? How does one know to whom to turn for information? Does riding require an instructor, a trainer, a coach? Can you get by with part-time guidance? Can you effectively learn on your own, with just the occasional directive, and still find personal or competitive success?

With this book, renowned clinician and international team coach Eric Smiley intends to fill the gap when it comes to these questions and others, providing a reliable resource and educational companion for the aspiring equestrian. Smiley addresses fundamental topics pertinent to riders, with philosophical discussion and practical exercises applicable to all levels. Along the way he strives to educate them on being taught, and perhaps, one day, becoming teachers.

His aim is to bring together the mind of the rider with the mind of the horse, while highlighting the key component in their synergy: understanding. It is how that understanding is acquired, retained, and put to use that is the key to success.

About the Author

Eric Smiley is a former international event rider who represented Ireland at European, World, and Olympic level, winning team bronze medals on two occasions. Smiley began his equestrian career in the Pony Club and continued it in the army and then the world-renowned Talland Equestrian Center, during which time he gained his British Horse Society Instructor's certificate. In 1995 Smiley passed his British Horse Society Fellowship exam, the highest teaching qualification in the industry. He was Team Coach to the Belgian Eventing team for the 2011 European Eventing Championships and 2012 London Olympics and is an FEI judge who regularly acts as a Ground Jury member.

Smiley is the author of the cross-country bible Look... No Hands! and travels the globe helping professional and amateur riders achieve their goals.

Ellie Hughes is former Deputy Editor of Eventing magazine, now freelance journalist who has written for equestrian and country lifestyle titles, including Horse & Hound, Horse, and Country Life. She has produced training articles with Lucinda Green, Pippa and William Funnell, Captain Mark Phillips and more. Hughes is a previous winner of the Pony Club National Eventing Championship.