 
This book should be read by anyone with aspirations to riding in the classical manner (in other words, anyone who wants to ride well). First published in 1973 and reprinted many times, this republished version shows that the book has more than withstood the test of time. Col. Podhajsky is widely acknowledged as being one of the world's greatest exponents of classical riding. As director and head of riding and training at the Spanish Riding School of Vienna, through many politically turbulent years, he never lost sight of the fundamental training required for horse and rider which serves to elevate their partnership to an art form and to which every rider should aspire even to the most modest degree. Although this book is aimed at those who would instruct others in the art of riding, it contains so much wisdom and explains even what is difficult with such simplicity and clarity, that anyone with a genuine interest in improving their own riding would be well advised to read it. Like all true horsemen, Col. Podhajsky puts the welfare of the horse first, and requires every stage of its' training to be pursued with calmness and patience. There are no short cuts to perfection and Col. Podhajsky doesn't recommend any resort to gadgets or tricks in order to achieve a desired result (sadly all too often these bad habits are passed from teacher to pupil). I don't think the word ‘outline' is ever used; certainly it is never given as a goal. On the contrary he emphasises the absolute necessity to achieve progress by improving the rider's seat, by continually encouraging the horse to work correctly and the need for consistent training of both horse and rider. This book reflects the vast knowledge the author has acquired over many years from life in the saddle and his first hand experience of many horses and riders. He appreciates the fragile nature of confidence and how easily it can be lost, often irrevocably (in both horse and man). He exhorts teachers to never demand more from his pupils than they are able to accomplish. Above all, he impresses on his readers the importance of developing a feeling of responsibility a rider must have toward his horse - and that, far more important than competitive ambition, is the guiding principle that should never be forgotten - that our horse should be our friend! This book should have its place in every horseman's library.
Published by The Sportsman's Press
Available from Tindalls Books +44 (0) 1638 561760
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