Widely known for her innovative teaching philosophy stressing body awareness, the value of "soft eyes," proper breathing, centering, and balance, Sally Swift has been a pioneering riding instructor for half a century. In book form for the first time, her methods enable horse and rider to achieve harmony, working together naturally, without pain. Unlike traditional teachers, Sally Swift does not believe in forced training techniques that cause stiff bodies and tense riding. Instead, through the use of vivid, unusual, and highly creative images that transcend mechanics ("Pretend you're a spruce tree; the roots grow down from your center as the trunk grows up"), plus a thorough knowledge of human and equine anatomy, this wise and inspiring teacher enables the conscientious equestrian to reassess habitual responses, in order to ride in natural positions, break through frustrating plateaus, and achieve ever-rising goals with comfort, vitality, and precision. Precise illustrations and photographs never before used in riding books explain anatomy and image work to give mind and body new and relaxed approaches to the inner process of riding. Centered Riding is for those with little experience all the way up to world class.

Experienced backyard horsekeeper Joan Fry leads the prospective horse owner through the process of assessing suitable land; choosing a veterinarian and farrier; constructing and furnishing a small barn, paddock, and arena; purchasing a horse; and feeding and care. Of special value to both novice and experienced owners are the sections on feed, which take into account the most up-to-date nutrition research, and training the horse for safe and enjoyable trail riding. Written with encouraging cheer and plenty of “horse sense,” Backyard Horsekeeping leads the way to maintaining and enjoying your own horse on your own property.

Horses and horsemen played central roles in modern European warfare from the Renaissance to the Great War of 1914-1918, not only determining victory in battle, but also affecting the rise and fall of kingdoms and nations. When Shakespeare's Richard III cried, "A horse, a horse, my kingdom for a horse!" he attested to the importance of the warhorse in history and embedded the image of the warhorse in the cultural memory of the West. In Riding to Arms: A History of Horsemanship and Mounted Warfare, Charles Caramello examines the evolution of horsemanship—the training of horses and riders—and its relationship to the evolution of mounted warfare over four centuries. He explains how theories of horsemanship, navigating between art and utility, eventually settled on formal manège equitation merged with outdoor hunting equitation as the ideal combination for modern cavalry. He also addresses how the evolution of firepower and the advent of mechanized warfare eventually led to the end of horse cavalry. Riding to Arms tracks the history of horsemanship and cavalry through scores of primary texts ranging from Federico Grisone's Rules of Riding (1550) to Lt.-Colonel E.G. French's Good-Bye to Boot and Saddle (1951). It offers not only a history of horsemen, horse soldiers, and horses, but also a survey of the seminal texts that shaped that history.

If you don’t know the difference between a bridle and a saddle but your child dreams of riding horses, this informative guide will answer all of your most pressing questions. Elise Gaston Chand provides informed and sensible tips on finding qualified instructors, the cost of lessons, safety concerns, and much more. Learn what to watch for as your child’s riding progresses, confidently steer your child toward rewarding competition experiences, and take pride in all of your child’s riding achievements.

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.

"Maintain your horse's well-being with advice on everything from a healthy equine diet to emergency care...everything you need to keep your horse in top form is here."-cover.

From tiny ponies to heavy draught horses and rapid thoroughbreds, explore the history and variety of this noble animal that helped shape human history. A stunning celebration of the equine world, The Horse Encyclopedia is a fully illustrated book about horses and ponies, featuring over 150 breeds and types, including all those recognized by national horse societies. First domesticated around 6000 years ago, horses rapidly became invaluable to humans. They pulled chariots and plows, and became essential to transport and war. In this comprehensive volume, you will discover breeds from all over the world, from imposing Shires whose ancestors carried knights in chainmail into battle, to thoroughbreds bred to run like the wind and Lipizzanas that can execute exquisite dressage moves such as the capriole where they jump with all four feet off the ground. The Horse Encyclopedia gives concise details of each breed, including its origins and anatomy, as well as famous individuals such as Secretariat, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest racehorses of all. This dazzling guide also includes expert advice on horse care, feeding and grooming, and horse health, making this a truly wonderful gift for all horse riders and equine enthusiasts.

Required reading for every Pony Club Member—now in a valuable new edition The United States Pony Club (USPC) is among the largest equestrian organizations in the United States, with more than 14,000 members in 600 clubs spread across 49 states, credited with training many current and past Olympic competitors. The USPC Manuals are required reading for every Pony Club Member, and will continue to be required reading into their new editions. This book is written and illustrated for youngsters who want to learn to ride, especially members of the U.S. Pony Clubs, Inc., who want to meet the USPC's Standards of Proficiency. If you're that youngster, you will be able to read this book on your own. This classic guide will show you how to become a careful, thoughtful rider and how to communicate with and understand your pony. Some sections, however, are meant to be read by an adult (a parent or riding instructor), so you can get the extra help you may need to reach your goals. By the time you have read this book you will know a lot about riding in a ring and in the open; beginning jumping; pony care and handling; safety; having fun and meeting challenges; and much more. New information on critical developments in riding, instruction, and competition The latest research and development in nutrition and veterinary topics Coverage of land conservation and horse health and safety All-new photos and a fully updated look and feel If you're a beginning rider, parent, or instructor, The United States Pony Club Manual of Horsemanship is a solid source of instruction, regardless of whether or not a Pony Club chapter is within reach.

In this fascinating best seller, Cherry Hill explores the way horses think and how it affects their behavior. Explaining why certain smells and sounds appeal to your horse’s sensibility and what sets off his sudden movements, Hill stresses how recognizing the thought processes behind your horse’s actions can help you communicate effectively and develop a trusting relationship based on mutual respect.