Books
The Complete Training of Horse &
Rider
by Alois Podhajsky
Don't let the Napoleonic uniform on the cover or
the ambitious title dissuade you from giving this
book serious consideration. The author was the
director of the Spanish Riding School of Vienna,
Austria (home of the famous white Lipizzaner
stallions) for over 25 years, and the training of
horses and riders was his life's work.
In this book, Colonel Podhajsky has set forth in
clear and readable fashion the step-by-step
methods of training both horse and rider that are
used at the School. These methods are the
foundation of all good horsemanship, for their
purpose is to develop the natural abilities of the
horse and to make riding a graceful, pleasurable
experience.
Podhajsky's methods are noted for embracing the
natural movements and instincts of the horse. His
work is also distinguished by his emphasis on
kindness, cooperation and mutual respect --
essential ingredients for a natural training
program. Invaluable reading!
Reader Review
"This is one of the best books I've read. The descriptions of aids and exercises are clearly explained and
often accompanied by discussions on when horse and rider are ready to begin a certain exercise or
level of training and some of the problems that may be experienced. I particularly enjoy Colonel
Podhajsky's empathy and feeling for the horse and that he sees this as a large part of his success.
The book is arranged into roughly three sections
- an overview \introductory set of chapters which includes a brief history of dressage training and
riding 'schools' and techniques
- training of the rider, which explains basics such as the seat, correct aids and the process of learning
to ride right through to troubleshooting advanced movements in dressage
- training of the horse - which looks at most aspects of bringing a young horse into training and teaching
on the lunge or long reins.
The principles of riding are the same today as they were in 1965 (or indeed 1865) and this really is one
of THE classics when it comes to true understanding of equitation." -- Viv from New Zealand
Star Ridge Company
Because Barefoot is Best.
Softcover, 288 pgs $14.95
