An innovative and easy-to-use application of Pilates principles to the training, conditioning, and rehabilitation of horses. This highly illustrated how-to manual provides a clear guide to new ways of thinking about how to prevent injury in the horse, and when injuries do happen, to help the horse's body recover in a mindful and safe way. As a Pilates teacher for humans, horsewoman and eventer Laura Reiman has seen first-hand how consistent, quality exercise can ward off strain and injury, as well as heal. When her young horse was diagnosed with extreme back pain and a neurological disease, she turned to her knowledge of Pilates-the method she'd used to ease back pain in human clients for years-for help. She began to find ways to "bridge the gap" between the horse's mind and body to help increase his body awareness and core engagement. The result is a cohesive series of original exercises that can be taken in parts or as a whole and seamlessly incorporated into an existing training program to be a: Preventive tool to increase the horse's strength, balance, mobility, and stability. Framework for a new program to help ease a horse back into work following an injury or time off. Readers will find chapters dedicated to: Observation-basic anatomy and how to "know" your horse's body and movement. Stretching-including incentive stretches, supported static hold, and dynamic mobilization stretches. Core work-such as the Cat Stretch and Bridging. In-hand strengthening work-like varied surfaces and ground pole progressions. Exercises on the longe line-transitions, bending, and spiraling. Lessons under saddle-gymnastics, hills, and basic dressage. Alternative bodywork-temperature therapy, massage, stability pads, bands, and more. Pilates for Horses is an ideal instructional guide for all riders and trainers looking to build and maintain a solid foundation of strength and comfort for their horses.

'Whether first time horse owner or seasoned professional, you are guaranteed to come away with a detailed, systematic, and comprehensive method for a happier, healthier equine partner'. Lameness is the most common cause of poor performance in the horse. This makes management of his soundness over the long term integral to both his general well being and his ability to participate in recreational and competitive activities. Unfortunately, most equine caretakers are unable to perceive abnormal movement in the horse, extending the period between the onset of a problem and its eventual treatment, and the longer an issue is allowed to persist, the greater the chance that it will progress. Many equine veterinarians also find it difficult to visually decipher lameness, which leads to lengthy, expensive, and often inaccurate diagnostic work ups. It is with these two key audiences in mind that Dr. Bob Grisel has created a book unlike any other. With hundreds of illustrations, dozens of charts, and links (via scannable QR codes within the book) to online videos of explanatory case studies, readers are given a complete course in observing, identifying, and decoding equine lameness. Dr. Grisel helps you interpret what is seen, plain and simple (no need for medical knowledge of equine anatomy and pathology).

"Learning never stops. It still surprises me that I can discover new and effective ways to train" Gill Watson's lifelong dedication to training and mentoring young riders has taken her on a journey that has spanned decades. Many of today's most renowned British eventers began their international careers under Gill's watchful eye. Full of insight, humour and occasional spills, Gill has drawn together memories from over forty former pupils and colleagues. This is an extraordinary record of life as an international team coach, and a fascinating look at the skills and techniques which forge young talent into future stars. With guest contributors including Olympic Gold Medal winner Laura Collett and a foreword by Pippa Funnell.

Would you like to dance with your horse? If the answer to that question is a resounding 'Yes!' then this book will help you do just that. Whether you are a serious competitor, a rider who enjoys schooling their horse for pleasure or someone in between, this book will equip you with the insights, knowledge, tips and training exercises to gymnasticise your horse, show you ways to improve your riding and give you the keys to discovering new levels of connection and performance with your horse - all done with lightness. Whatever style of riding you enjoy, be it jumping, endurance, eventing, polo, trail-riding or dressage, Dressage the Light Way ensures that you will have a lighter, safer, more athletic and responsive ride if you follow the progressive, step-by-step training methods in this book. From the seat and position to balance and collection, or calming the horse to advanced lateral work, every topic is presented in a concise bullet-pointed and numbered format so that the basic essence of each subject is quickly absorbed and understood.

This modern-day quick reference to more than 50 grids and jumping exercises brings the best of top international training and instruction into your home ring. Build your skillset and your horse's confidence and conditioning with a fantastic selection of lessons you can use to: - Diversify your training routine. - Sharpen your horse prior to competition. - Address specific problem areas. Within these pages you'll have regular access to the tips and tricks that have brought some of the most accomplished riders and trainers professional success. Amateur eventer Margaret Rizzo McKelvy has compiled an unparalleled collection of exercises for any jumping discipline-eventing, show jumping, hunters, and equitation-by tapping the expertise of a remarkable group of top equestrians never before found together in one instructional book, including Olympians Anne Kursinski, Phillip Dutton, Kim Severson, Ingrid Klimke, and Will Coleman. Plus, you'll find: - Easy-to-follow diagrams and clear explanations make it a snap to recreate the lessons at home. - Workouts are easy to modify for smaller or larger arenas. - Recommendations help you adjust exercises as needed relative to the experience level of riders and horses. This one-of-a-kind resource is not only a fabulous addition to any rider's training toolbox, it is invaluable to coaches and instructors looking for ideas and inspiration to help keep their students engaged and growing as riders and educated horsepeople.

Punters have never had it so good. In a world of rapidly progressive technology and ever-changing ways to bet, the days of punting solely in the betting shop and on the racecourse are long gone. Since the invention of Betfair in 2000 and the mass move online, bookmakers have never been closer to their customers. Punters are able to place bets at the click of a button - on the move, from the pub and even in the office - and the gambling industry has boomed because of it. Football has taken over as the market leader but horseracing is still hugely popular, while odds on other popular sports have opened them up to a fresh audience - the punters. But in a world of flickering screens and rifling numbers can come confusion. Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned bettor, the Racing Post Betting Guide provides a lighter look at betting in the current climate, covering horseracing, football and other major sports such as golf, cricket and tennis. The views of our unparelled team of experts can help shape your thinking. Call on the Racing Post's unrivalled expertise, soak up all the knowledge you can and become a better bettor. Among the chapters to consider are: Ten top tips by Pricewise supremo Tom Segal-Studying the form by tipping judge Paul Kealy-Football accas and in-play by Mark Langdon-Punting at the big festivals by David Jennings-Golf betting and the Majors by Steve Palmer-Betting on the favourites by Richard Birch-Tackling the handicaps by Keith Melrose. Other forms of betting covered are: Betting exchanges, pool betting, multiple bets, ante-post betting, pedigree punting plus betting on NFL, darts, rugby, UFC and cycling plus more!

From the author of the hugely successful titles How Your Horse Moves and Horse Anatomy for Performance, comes a completely different training manual, also based on the Horses Inside Out philosophy: 'Understanding Anatomy Improves Performance and Reduces the Risk of Injury'. Divided into three main parts: Principles of Anatomical Riding and Training; Exercises for Horse and Rider; Troubleshooting, the book contains a wealth of practical tips and exercises broken down into easy to follow, well-illustrated steps showing how riders can improve their riding skills and potential. The author suggests ways to improve horses' physique, posture, flexibility, stability, core strength, performance and movement and how to reduce muscular and movement problems, and reduce the risk of injury. This beautifully illustrated book looks at how to deliver a safe, varied, fun, effective and achievable training programme. It provides all the ingredients for riders to make informed decisions to maximise their own and their horse's potential, gain more enjoyment, satisfaction and improve their skills.

Calumet, Claiborne, King Ranch - these iconic names are among the owners and breeders revered by Thoroughbred industry professionals and racing fans around the world. As campaigners of many of the 20th century's top racehorses, their prestige has been confirmed by decades of competition in the Triple Crown, the most esteemed series in American Thoroughbred racing. Even with these substantial legacies, their success is measured against the benchmark set by one of racing's earliest dynasties, the historic Belair Stud. The story of this legendary operation began with William Woodward's childhood memories of grand days at the racetrack, inspiring dreams of breeding a champion or two of his own. During a year working for the American Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Woodward frequented English racetracks, rekindling that childhood dream of breeding and owning champion Thoroughbreds. Woodward turned those dreams into reality, building Belair Stud on his family's Maryland estate, launching what would become the preeminent Thoroughbred breeding and racing empire in America and chasing racing's biggest prizes in both the United States and England. The defining moment for Belair came when Woodward bred the imported stallion Sir Gallahad III to his mare Marguerite. Their colt, Gallant Fox, became only the second horse in history to win the Preakness Stakes, the Kentucky Derby, and the Belmont Stakes in the same year. In 1935, the farm cemented the Triple Crown as the gold standard for three-year-olds when Gallant Fox's son, Omaha, duplicated his sire's trio of victories, a sweep that sealed the farm's legacy and carved its name in the annals of racing history. In The Foxes of Belair: Gallant Fox, Omaha, and the Quest for the Triple Crown, Jennifer Kelly examines the racing legacies of Gallant Fox and Omaha and how William Woodward's service to racing during the 20th century forever changed the landscape of the American Thoroughbred industry.

Learn all there is to know about horse riding, from horse care and show jumping to mastering dressage. Suitable for both novice and advanced riders, and for equestrian fans of all ages, this book will guide you through every stage of the riding process from the first time in the saddle to advanced riding skills. Featuring all of the latest techniques and equipment, this comprehensive and fully updated edition covers everything you need to know about basic horse training, dressage training, and mental and physical preparation - for both horse and rider - as well as how to find and develop your ultimate horse. Dive deeper into this brilliant book about horses: - llustrated in full colour throughout, with specially commissioned photographic sequences and artworks that show every riding technique with unparalleled clarity. - Includes detailed, updated sections on dressage, showjumping, cross country, and young horse training as well as how to find and develop your ultimate horse. - Combines a practical approach to technique - including illustrated troubleshooting sections - with a deep understanding, and invaluable analysis, of horse behaviour. - Presents standard riding methods in a fresh and imaginative way with overlapping "action" photo sequences. - Explains the symbiotic relationship between horse and rider that is at the heart of all successful riding. Presented in spectacular visual detail, it is the ultimate guide to perfecting your equestrian skills. Featuring tips from internationally renowned horse trainer William Micklem, Complete Horse Riding Manual is a truly thoroughbred guide that is a must-have for any horse lover.

Pat Smullen was one of the greatest Irish jockeys ever. In a career laden with success, his position as one of the country's best ever flat jockeys was long established. And yet, despite being a nine-time champion jockey, his humility defined him. It was this strength of character that sustained him when, in March 2018, Pat was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. There was never any self-pity. He just dealt with it. And more than that, he brought it centre stage: raising funds and awareness, and channelling his energies into helping others. Pat was a champion in all aspects of life, no matter what setbacks were thrown at him. Tragically, his life was cut short far too early in September 2020. Written in the months before his death, with the assistance of Donn McClean and completed by Pat's wife, Frances Crowley, Champion is the inspirational story of the jockey whose legacy lives on. 'From incredible highs to devastating lows, the championship battles and mental turmoil, the Derby winners and cancer heartbreak, Pat has left more than a legacy. Read this and you will agree with me - he is iconic.' Ruby Walsh 'Pat tells his story with the same honesty and humility that defined him as a person. He was a remarkable man and his is a compelling story.' Sir Anthony Mccoy 'Pat was an amazing man, a man of dignity who went about life with a smile on his face. He is an example to all of us.' Frankie Dettori 'Inspiring, heart-breaking and unforgettable.' Brough Scott

At the core of this book is a series of 'state of the art' experiments in which the author participated, designed to establish whether certain classical ideas about true collection could be scientifically proved. Discussion of the results leads into an exploration of how working towards collection informs the progression of training and the way in which the exercises are implemented. This pursuit of collection is likely to take a purer form if it is motivated by artistic values rather than by the rider's ego. In this fascinating and thoughtful book, the author urges readers to focus on their own individuality, rather than being motivated or misled by external pressures; to 'collect' or 'centre' themselves, as they work towards a similar state with their horses.

Become the confident, composed, and effective rider you ve always wanted to be
Mental skills coach Tonya Johnston, MA, has helped thousands of equestrian athletes achieve success at every level, from recreational riders to award-winning international competitors. In "Inside Your Ride," she provides specific methods and clear, easy-to-follow directions to help you mentally prepare for your next ride or competition, no matter your discipline and skill level.
This book will show you how to: Become energized and overcome riding challenges Highlight progress and success within your goal setting Conquer anxiety and develop a positive attitude Stay in the moment during your ride Fine-tune your visualization skills Build a consistent preparation routine Communicate well with trainers, partners, parents, or fellow boarders "Inside Your Ride" is also filled with inspiring quotes, stories, and insights from Olympic and world-class riders and trainers, including Margie Engle, John French, Guenter Seidel, Anne Kursinski, McLain Ward, Gina Miles, and Missy Clark, who share their personal mental preparation strategies.

"A confident rider is vital to the overall performance of the horse/rider partnership and John Haime's Ride Big is a great tool for any rider to help improve their confidence in equestrian sport." - Oliver Townend, FEI #1 World-Ranked Eventer, Olympic Eventing Gold Medalist Tokyo 2021 An easy-to-implement framework proven to grow rider confidence, tested by the world's leading equestrian athletes. Without confidence, achievement in competition is unattainable. When confidence is lacking in any sport, equestrian included, chances are your career will be short. Renowned performance coach John Haime has written the book to counter this challenge, providing the mental tools riders need to be better under pressure of all kinds and consistently succeed. Haime invites readers to dive into three clear and informative areas of exploration: The Confidence Base: Firm up the fundamentals. The Confidence Builders: Systems and tips to help you build confidence. The Confidence Threats: An inside look at what to watch out for in riding and in competition. Throughout, those who have reached the highest levels on horseback in a number of disciplines share their stories, including Michael Jung, Beezie Madden, McLain Ward, Laura Tomlinson, Harry Meade, Oliver Townend, and Beth Underhill. These Olympians, champions, and medalists explain what they do in the saddle and how their techniques for performing under world-class pressure might help other riders develop a similar kind of confidence. Perhaps even more valuable are the struggles these top competitors share, giving readers the rare opportunity to see how even "the best of the best" are human, too. The way riders develop confidence in their equestrian lives is transferable to everything they do: a confident rider can be a confident business person, confident worker, confident spouse, confident parent, and confident friend. In this way, Ride Big! (TM) instills a skill of worth and promise that extends far beyond the show ring.

A handy quick-reference with step-by-step color photos and easy-to-follow instructions from two top professional grooms. Braiding a horse's mane kind of comes with the territory-who can resist playing with all that hair? While it may begin as a downtime activity on a rainy afternoon or fun with friends after riding lessons, braiding takes on a life of its own when it comes to competition. Professional grooms and others who braid on the show circuit can make a living doing just that when they have the skills to do it fast and do it well. Professional grooms Cat Hill and Emma Ford, co-authors of the bestselling World-Class Grooming for Horses, have braided thousands of horses for a variety of disciplines over the course of their esteemed careers in the equestrian industry. Now they've highlighted those skills in a book conceived to be a helpful barn companion-one you can take with you and keep in your tack trunk, providing a go-to reference whenever you need it. Chock full of full-color photographs that illustrate every step of the process, readers learn techniques for: Braiding down-a nice, tight, smooth braid is the key to a sophisticated finish. Using thread, yarn, or rubber bands. Properly finishing and removing braids to avoid hair damage. Button braids two ways. Hunter braids. Running braids. Unpulled manes and long manes. Braiding forelocks. With their expertise, top-tier standards, and trademark clarity as professionals who have made teaching their trade an integral part of their lives, Hill and Ford provide everything you need to know to turn a horse out with professional polish, ready to impress the judges and wow the crowds.

Postcards from the World of Horse Racing: Days Out on the Global Racing Road is the new book by international-racing expert Nicholas Godfrey. In a series of evocative, informative pieces from around the racing world, Godfrey visits 20 different countries on six continents, from unforgettable high-profile events at major racecourses - such as the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs or the Dubai World Cup at billion-dollar Meydan - to racing venues on the road less travelled - like Morocco, Uruguay and Switzerland, where they race on a frozen lake in St Moritz. Among those he encounters are America's mighty mare Zenyatta, Triple Crown hero American Pharoah and Black Caviar, the 'Wonder from Down Under'. As well as reliving his experiences, Godfrey prefaces each postcard with a how-to guide for those wishing to follow in his footsteps. Illustrated with a range of colour photographs, the book also features a foreword by Brough Scott, one of the most respected sportswriters in the business.

We all want our horses to be able to perform to the best of their ability and we know that an effective training regime has many facets. The horse must be worked correctly, fed a balanced ration, mentally and physically healthy and well looked after. This book examines a further aspect of the horse's performance: it is designed to help all horse owners and riders to understand how a horse moves and how its anatomy helps, or hinders, the horse's athletic ability.

First, the book uses sequences of photographs and detailed anatomical drawings to show the systems of support and movement at each phase of each of the horse's gaits. The walk, trot, canter, gallop and jump are all examined, and the effect of the rider on the horse evaluated so that the rider can take appropriate action to avoid hindering the horse. Tips are provided throughout on ways in which the horse's life can be made easier, such as saddle fitting, warming up and cooling down procedures.

Horses in Training is an institution in racing. It is an encyclopaedia of invaluable information on the horses each trainer has in their care. The book lists, in alphabetical format, British, Irish and French trainers, their horses, the ownership and breeding of each horse, foaling dates of two-year-olds, and the trainer's contact details. It is fully indexed, with over 200 pages of statistics and details of almost 20,000 horses and 595 trainers, and it is an invaluable source of a wide variety of racing statistics, from details of UK racecourses to big-race winners. It is presented in an easy-to-follow style and is an invaluable tool for anyone who works or has an interest in racing. Horses in Training is expertly edited by Graham Dench, a senior reporter and former Form Book editor for the Racing Post.

A rollicking comic treasury, starring the world's most famous cartoon horse. He has hundreds of thousands of followers on Facebook and a surging presence on Instagram. Each day, he and his diverse group of friends share their mishaps, their successes, and their innermost thoughts with the world. He is seemingly ageless, looking even better now than when his ascent to fame began. Who is this intriguing Internet celebrity? Fergus the Horse (Equus hilarious), the creation of artist Jean Abernethy, has been entertaining audiences-young and old, in print and online-with his comedic adventures for the past 20 years. His rise to fame was documented in the epic equine comic collection The Essential Fergus the Horse, and now, Abernethy celebrates his age-and the wisdom that should come with it-with an all-new selection of horsey humor, including many cartoons fans have never seen before, created exclusively for this book. With a genuine appeal that crosses boundaries of breed, discipline, and geographic location, Fergus unites anyone with an eye for a horse and a need for a laugh. Readers of all ages-from 5 to 95-will be delighted by his wit, honesty, and profoundly funny observations on horses, humans, and the life they strive to live together.

The definitive guide to individualized equine management based on the horse's personality and body type. Dr. Ina Goesmeier leads the horse world in her area of specialization. A classically trained veterinarian, she supports her Western medical practice with knowledge gained through the study of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This handbook provides a basic introduction to the guiding principle of determining a horse's type before making decisions about handling, care, training, or treatment. According to TCM there are five horse types, assignments that are based not only on the horse's behavior, but on his build and body conformation, as well as diagnosis of his tongue and pulse. By determing the horse's type, you learn: How to understand and partner with each individual equine in the best ways possible. Appropriate choices related to training and handling techniques. Insight related to how a horse travels and what can keep him comfortable and healthy on the road. Why one horse learns quickly, why one always needs more rest, why another needs to be motivated with variety, and why some are fine alone while others need a friend at their side. A TCM type description helps the horse owner and rider assess the horse more accurately, promote the horse's training and well-being in a targeted manner, and troubleshoot existing and potential rideability problems. This book shares 11 case studies of horse types "in harmony" and "in disharmony" to demonstrate how the five horse types can be applied on day-to-day basis as well when treatment for injury or illness is necessary. Basic instructions for DIY acupressure and herbal therapy for health maintenance over the long term are also included.

Riding in perfect balance with the lightest application of aids is something most riders strive to achieve. But without the help of an instructor by your side at all times, it is easy for bad habits to develop unnoticed. With over 100 photographs showing common riding faults - such as tipping forward, weak lower leg position, heavy hands and incorrect application of the aids - this is an outstanding guide for anyone aiming for grace, balance and accuracy in their riding. Each of the 100 features includes a technique to work on and advice on what might go wrong and how to put it right. Focus is also given to the right mental approach, rounding off this complete riding problem solver. Classical riding instructor Susan McBane offers simple yet effective advice on how to identify and remedy 100 of the most common riding problems, with a straightforward and accessible approach to horses. Designed in easy-to-reference sections, 100 Ways to Improve Your Riding is the ultimate equestrian problem solver, helping you to get the most out of your ability and your horse. 'The instruction given in the book is ... based on sound classical principles ... a good buy for just about any rider and riding teacher.' The Classical Riding Club

When Frankie Dettori stormed to victory on Golden Horn in the 2015 Derby, the effervescent Italian jockey was writing yet another extraordinary chapter in a remarkable sporting story. This tribute to hugely popular sportsman draws on the unique resources of the Racing Post to chronicle the Dettori career as never before. The son of a Milanese Classic-winning jockey has been Champion jockey on three occasions and has ridden such equine superstars as Dubai Millennium, Lochsong, Lammtarra, Daylami and his first Derby winner Authorized. He made worldwide headlines when winning every contest on a seven-race card in September 1996, which made him a household name. The Dettori story has also had its darker side: surviving a plane crash in 2000 in which the pilot was killed; a six-month suspension in December 2012 for contravening racing's drugs rules; losing the lucrative job as first jockey to Sheikh Mohammed's Godolphin operation. But Frankie has always bounced back, and his next flying dismount is never far away.

How well do you know your racing? You follow the form, share in the agony of defeat and the elation of success, but how much of that information do you remember? The Racing Post Quiz Book will provide hours of entertainment and challenge horse racing know-it-alls to prove themselves. Categories range from where this uniquely historic sport started right up to the modern day, taking in the best horses, most successful trainers, the heroic jockeys and many more besides. With 1,000 questions, many fiendish, some infuriating, this is the ultimate test for any racing fan.