From the Inside Flap:
The Athletic Development of the Dressage Horse is the first book devoted entirely to classical manege exercises that are ridden to supple, strengthen and, when necessary, correct. Internationally known instructor, coach and judge Charles de Kunffy details a program of exercises that will enable horses at all levels of dressage and combined training to improve their performance as equine athletes. Unlike other dressage books that explain how to exercise a horse in order to ride a standardized test, this book explains how such exercises can and should be used to increase performance ability, suspension, collection and changes of gaits through true patterns and counter patterns that are accompanied by diagrams and demonstration photographs. Those who have attended Charles de Kunffy’s clinics know that horses inevitably and rapidly improve under his guidance and that riders themselves improve as well. And those encountering him for the first time will experience in this, his third dressage book, what others already know: Here is a horseman of uncommon intelligence and wit who expresses himself clearly, simply and elegantly.
The Howell Equestrian Library is a distinguished collection of books on all aspects of horsemanship and horsemastership. The nearly fifty books in print offer readers in all disciplines and at all levels of competition sound instruction and guidance by some of the most celebrated riders, trainers, judges and veterinarians in the horse world today. Whether your interest is dressage, show jumping or Western riding, or whether it’s breeding, grooming or health care, Howell has a book to answer your needs.
Get to know all the books in the Howell Equestrian Library: many are modern-day classics and have achieved the status of authoritative references in the estimation of those who ride, train and care for horses.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent book on dressage
With all the books on dressage out nowadays, this is one that emphasizes developing the horse with daily exercises that he explains and then shows in lots of photos.
3.0 out of 5 stars
Thoughtful but disorganized
The message is all there in this book but finding it is a treasure hunt. There is some excellent advice, excellent exercises, and great information on how to progress.
5.0 out of 5 stars
A fine dressage book!
At the risk of repeating what everyone says about every book that they like, you must be this book and digest it thoroughly if you are at all serious about dressage.
1.0 out of 5 stars
disappointing
very disappointing book. The writing is poor, the book is disorganized, and consists primarily of repetitive statements about the author’s philosophy on dressage.