This is a comprehensive and practical guide to improving your horse riding with a huge range of exercises designed to tackle every aspect of the rider's position. The 101 exercises are divided into sections according to the area of the body, with some focusing on specific areas and others involving the entire body. Riders can identify problem areas and tailor-make their own personal training programme of both ridden and dismounted exercises, while riding instructors can use the exercises to create their lesson plans. Each exercise is clearly explained with diagrams and step-by-step instructions and includes invaluable tips to ensure effective results.

Table of Contents

Introduction; 1 The basics; 2 Learning aids; 3 Fitness; 4 Performing exercises: why ride these exercises?; THE EXERCISES; The seat; Torso and waist; Shoulders; Arms; Hands and wrists; Legs; Feet and ankles; Balance and co-ordination; Feel; Breathing; Emotional issues; Improving rein contact; Dismounted exercises; One sidedness; Straightness; Exercises on the lunge; Further reading; Useful contacts; Index.

About the Author

Karen Bush is an experienced author and instructor and has previously co-written The Principles of Teaching Riding (D&C, 2005) and The Complete Equine Emergency Bible (D&C, 2006). Julian Marczak is the chairman of the Association of British Riding Schools (ABRS) and member of the council of the British Equestrian Federation.