In this invaluable step-by-step guide to basic schooling, the authors acknowledge that not every horse is perfect and that when training it is important to take account of individual characteristics, both mental and physical, and to develop a programme that is both practical and achievable. The authors also stress that all riding is training and the horse cannot be expected to do what is required of him if he is given confused and contradictory signals. The onus is upon the rider to adopt the correct posture and apply the aids with care and accuracy at all times.
To this end, Martin Diggle's intelligent and illuminating text together with Maggie Raynor's accurate and inspirational artwork will assist the reader to discover the best way to train his or her particular horse up to the requirements of basic dressage tests; the acknowledged route to any specialized discipline. Whether the aim is to compete, or simply to enhance the pleasures of recreational riding, this attractive book will both delight and inform anyone wishing to develop a successful relationship between horse and rider .
Contents include:
Basic Principles. The Rider's Technique. The Horse. First Thoughts on Training . How Conformation Can Affect Training. The Gaits and Gait Variations . Transitions. Lateral Work. Lines, Circles and Figures. Faults and Problems

MARTIN DIGGLE has achieved success in all of the major competitive disciplines and is involved in the training of both horses and riders. He is the author of Riding From Scratch, Riding Over Jumps, Riding Cross County, Riding a Dressage Test, Teaching Basic Jumping, Teaching the Mature Rider, and is the editor of the highly successful Masters of Equitation series.
MAGGIE RAYNOR is one of the most successful and sought-after equestrian artists working today. Her profound knowledge of horse anatomy coupled with her own equestrian experience and well developed power of observation combine to ensure that her work is not only attractive and accurate, but that the message is crystal clear.