In no uncertain terms, this book asks what it means to be a responsible rider, and whether, in today's society, it is indeed possible for equestrians in any horse sport to put the good of the horse first and foremost, and above ambition and fame. With vibrantly clear illustrations of the horse's anatomy and how it is impacted by various riding techniques, Balancing Act presents proof that, although some steps have been taken to prevent the use of forceful and cruel techniques, many sport horses still perform in pain and discomfort. With fabulous art to help show the anatomy of the horse and multiple examples of poor riding in pictures so that the reader can avoid similar pitfalls, Dr. Heuschmann gives all of us reasons to examine ourselves and those around us through the lens of the horse's welfare. Readers will also find five chapters full of researched and proven recommendations for retraining horses with behavioural or biomechanical issues related to poor training techniques, including: the tense horse; the rein-lame horse; the horse with gait deviations; the hyperflexed horse; and the unbalanced horse that is completely off the aids. In paperback for the first time with new observations from the author, Balancing Act is for every conscientious horse person intent on riding and training with the good of the horse in mind.

The Business of Coaching with Horses is the definitive business guide for equine-assisted professionals to reach more clients so they can feed their horses and change the world! Horse coaching and therapy benefits are unique and sometimes 'mysterious'. In The Business of Coaching with Horses, Equine Alchemy Certified Coach and Facilitator Schelli Whitehouse illustrates exactly what it takes to experience balance, abundance, and a sustainable equine-assisted coaching practice. Schelli's own life journey and work with horses has become an integrated celebration of purpose and prosperity as she works to see equine-assisted coaching and therapy become a valuable 'go-to' modality for personal and professional transformation-as popular as yoga and Starbucks! Through colorful personal stories, client case studies, and advice from industry experts, The Business of Coaching with Horses guides equine-assisted practitioners through 7 essential skills for building a thriving business with horsepower. Complete with an online companion workbook, Schelli helps readers establish and build upon their own foundation of personal core principles and unique expertise in order to provide value, structure, and transformation for their ideal clients. Part business branding, part money mindset mastery, and part service design, The Business of Coaching with Horses is a loving kick-in-the-pants and a journey to the heart of success for any Horse and Soul Business.

A unique and groundbreaking analysis of how to succeed in equestrian sport, this book unpacks the winning habits of successful equestrians to form a toolkit for readers to develop their own winning habits.

Applying psychological understanding in peak performance, this book is bolstered by interviews with top contemporary professional show jumping athletes to explore and show how leading equestrians have interpreted various methods and built them into approaches for their own training. Theoretical concepts such as mindset, deliberate practice, focus and flow are broken down and translated into practical steps for a more powerful and effective way of thinking, training and performing. Renowned equestrian mental coach Annette Paterakis reveals factors of success, as well as answers common questions, from building lasting confidence to responding to failure. Smashing the myths of talent and hard work, Paterakis offers a refreshing take on mindset, focus and approach to success both in and out of the show ring.

An essential read for anyone who would like to learn about or improve their mental game, this book is uniquely suited for equestrian riders, coaches and other athletes, as well as offering supplementary reading for applied sport psychology courses.

Table of Contents

Introduction 1. Mindset 2. Deliberate Training 3. Focus 4. Flow 5. Confidence 6. Motivation 7. Learn from the best 8.Success Conclusion Author’s note Acknowledgements Book recommendations

A heartwarming collection of stories from a woman who brings together disadvantaged children and abandoned racehorses, with remarkable results. Thirteen-year-old Sophie hadn't uttered a word to anyone for over two years when she got out of her parents car at a remote farm in Devon. Her parents were beside themselves with worry, and at the end of their tether, but try as they might, nothing seemed to make a difference. They'd heard about a place called Greatwood through friends - where owners Helen and Michael Yeadon looked after retired racehorses - and decided to take Sophie along for a visit. Helen asked Sophie to help her change the dressings on the infected cuts on the legs of Darcy Day, one of their more troubled horses, and it was instantly clear that these two had some kind of special connection. Darcy Day would normally back away from people, but this time she lowered her head and stepped forward, to let Sophie stroke her nose. It was the start of an incredible relationship that would transform both horse and child, and it gave Michael and Helen an idea. They registered as a charity, moved to bigger premises, and began inviting children with a wide range of learning disabilities to volunteer to help with the animals. The results were amazing - traumatised horses and anxious or disturbed children bonded with each other, and every week little miracles were happening before their eyes. Boys with diagnoses such as Asperger's Syndrome or Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or those who'd been excluded from school for unruly behaviour, flourished through the discipline of working on the farm. Girls made timid and anxious by abusive backgrounds or school bullies came out of the shells. In this book are twenty of the most incredible tales of children who were given back their futures by the unique and extraordinary institution of Greatwood.

The Faraway Horses, which was the inspiration for the Sundance Film Festival's award-winning documentary Buck in 2011, is Buck Brannaman's richly textured and stunning account of his life from an abusive childhood to his phenomenally successful approach to horses. A real-life 'horse-whisperer', Buck possesses near magical abilities as he dramatically transforms horses-and people-with his understanding, compassion, and respect. A truly American story about a cowboy and sage, The Faraway Horses tells the tale of the extraordinary life of an extraordinary man. At heart, this rich and rewarding memoir is a roadmap for living a harmonious and honourable existence among horses and humans. This updated edition features a new foreword and introduction. 'I've started horses since I was 12 years old and have been bit, kicked, bucked off and run over. I've tried every physical means to contain my horse in an effort to keep from getting myself killed. I started to realise that things would come much easier for me once I learned why a horse does what he does. This method works well for me because of the kinship that develops between horse and rider'. Buck Brannaman

This book is a comprehensive history of polo in Argentina, from its beginnings in the 1870s to the summer of 2013. The history of the early pioneers is explored with data not previously published, gathered from contemporary sources. International competitions include the Olympic Games, the Cup of the Americas and the World Championships. Particular attention is given to the major clubs, the Argentine and Hurlingham Open Championships and the National Handicap Tournament. Several of the elite players merit individual or family mini-biographies. Several myths in Argentine polo are debunked, based upon careful analysis of contemporary sources. Travels abroad by Argentine teams are fully described as are the foreign teams that competed in Argentina. The contents of the book are enhanced by the author's personal observation of significant events and his friendship with many of the participants in the story. This work represents the first book devoted to polo Argentina in more than sixty years.

"8 December 2011: I went to a small horse competition in the morning. That much I do remember. After that absolutely nothing..." Surviving a near fatal brain injury brings a person face to face with the very basis of their identity. Some will be lucky and pick up their former lives with barely a missed step. Others will have everything that holds them to who they were stripped away by brain damage. When former Champion eventer Polly Williamson sustained a traumatic brain injury in a horrific incident with a young horse she was given a 33% chance of returning to life as a wife and mother. It severed her connection to her former self and for a long time it stole away her ability to care for her children. Polly was left struggling to relate to who she was. Brave and beautifully honest, Where did I go? is the powerful yet positive account of Polly's journey to rediscover the pieces of her identity, lost after a traumatic brain injury. With a special foreword by HRH The Princess Royal.

From the Wild West shows of the nineteenth century to the popular movie Westerns of the twentieth century, one view of an idealized and mythical West has been promulgated. Elyssa Ford suggests that we look beyond these cowboy cliches to complicate and enrich our picture of the American West. Rodeo as Refuge, Rodeo as Rebellion takes us from the beachfront rodeo arenas in Hawai'i to the reservation rodeos held by Native Americans to reveal how people largely missing from that stereotypical picture make rodeo--and America--their own. Because rodeo has such a hold on our historical and cultural imagination, it becomes an ideal arena for establishing historical and cultural relevance. By claiming a place in that arena, groups rarely included in our understanding of the West--African Americans, Native Americans, Mexican Americans, Native Hawaiians, and the LGBT community--emphasize their involvement in the American past and proclaim their right to an American identity today. In doing so, these groups change what Americans know about their history and themselves. In her journey through these race- and group-specific rodeos, Ford finds that some see rodeo as a form of escape, a refuge from a hostile outside world. For others, rodeo has become a site of rebellion, a place to proclaim their difference and to connect to a different story of America. Still others, like Mexican Americans and the LGBT community, look inward, using rodeo to coalesce and celebrate their own identities. In Ford's study of these historically marginalized groups, she also examines where women fit in race- and group-specific rodeos--and concludes that even within these groups, the traditional masculinity of the rodeo continues to be promoted. Female competitors may find refuge within alternate rodeos based on their race or sexuality, but they still face limitations due to their gender identity. Whether as refuge or rebellion, rodeos of difference emerge in this book as quintessentially American, remaking how we think about American history, culture, and identity.

Avoiding the Pitfalls, written by Richard E. Dennis, is a must for the first-time equine buyer or investor. The book instructs newcomers in the horse business and warns them about the pitfalls. Subjects such as making your love of horses a business or a hobby, selecting a horse, equine drug testing, selecting a horse boarding facility, selecting a trainer, the skinny on non-profit horse organizations, equipment and their applications, hiring a farrier and horse showing, the health and care of the horse and horse safety.

It is written by Richard E. “Rick” Dennis, whose background includes being a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs training school, a drug enforcement agent, working undercover for the Office of Drug Abuse and Law Enforcement, conducting forensic audits, K-9 instructor/trainer specializing in explosive, narcotics and law enforcement, a law enforcement officer, drug testing and combining law enforcement with private security.

However, later he learned the art of breaking, training and showing a horse “the right way” from legendary trainer, Greg Ward, of the Ward Ranch in California. He competed for three years in the West coast reined cow horse industry, producing multiple-event stock horses for work, pleasure or the show arena. With show earnings of over a half million dollars, he is also an instructor, with him or his students winning a remarkable 10 World Championships, two Reserve World Champions, an NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity finalist, three NRCHA Superiors, an NSHA Superior and an AQHA National Top 10 cow horse limited rider, among other titles.

With a rugged yet romantic mystique, western riding is as American as the Old West, Roy Rogers, and John Wayne. Whether you're more at home on the range, exploring the trails, or competing in the show arena, The Classic Western Rider will help you hone your skills. From America's proud cowboy heritage to today's training methods and competitive events, it covers:
* ""Make or break"" information about equipment, especially the saddle
* A guide to training--cowboy style
* The subtle skill sets of winning western horsemanship, including six common rider faults and how to fix them
* Nurturing a partnership with your horse
* The ins and outs of western competitive sports and events such as reining, western speed contests, and team penning

With photos and drawings and advice from industry professionals Bret Brokcte, Nancy Cahill, Suzi Drnec, Linda Huck, and Linda Morse, this primer is ideal for the new riding enthusiast or the more experienced western rider who wants to fine-tune his or her skills. Happy trails to you

A self-test and revision aid for candidates working towards the BHS Stage 2 assessment Based on the Stage 2 syllabus, this innovative workbook is designed to make revision entertaining yet effective. It allows you to test your knowledge against the requirements of this assessment and contains a wealth of typical assessment questions - with, of course, many model answers.

Techniques to help riders fine-tune their communication and riding skills

This follow-up to "How Your Horse Wants You to Ride" helps intermediate to advanced riders improve their communication with their mounts and polish their overall riding skills. Readers get a complete tutorial-much of which can be found nowhere else-on taking their riding skills to the next level.

Learn to ride correctly, safely, and confidently
In this breakthrough guide, renowned riding expert Gincy Self Bucklin offers adult riders a unique, proven method for developing a good physical, mental, and emotional relationship with a horse. Whether you're a beginner, a more experienced rider looking to enhance your skills, or someone who used to ride but is reluctant to try again, Bucklin's step-by-step exercises-slowly and carefully practiced first on the ground and then on your horse-will have you riding with confidence and without fear. You'll build a safe and caring partnership with your horse as you:
* Understand how your actions affect your horse
* Improve your form, release tensions, and find balance
* Communicate with your horse to gain his trust
* Stay in charge without being controlling
* Observe your horse's responses and learn from them
* Increase your horse's comfort-both physically and psychologically

""If you' ve ever said to yourself, 'Why can' t I . . . ?, ' you' ll find the answer here to why you can' t, and exactly how to solve the problem. Whatever your level, you'll gain greater understanding and become a better rider and horseman from reading this book.""
-George H. Morris, internationally renowned clinician, USEF Show Jumping vice-president, ARIA master instructor, and member of the U. S. Equestrian Federation Board of Directors
""How Your Horse Wants You To Ride is chock full of innovative and practical tools presented in a thoroughly entertaining style. A delightful read for riders at all levels ""
-Jane Savoie, olympic alternate and author of That Winning Feeling , Cross Train Your Horse, More Cross Training, and It's Not Just About the Ribbons

If you have ever wanted to know how to get a horse into a trailer, how to deal with a bucking horse, how to walk your horse through water or how to handle a two-month-old foal, then you need look no further than ASK MONTY. In this book, Monty Roberts, lifelong horse trainer and bestselling author of THE MAN WHO LISTENS TO HORSES, answers hundreds of questions that have been regularly posed to him by fans and readers over many years. He shares the methods and techniques that he has spent a lifetime perfecting, which will enable you to understand, communicate and work more effectively with your horse. Each chapter is devoted to a key area of horse training, and Monty's methods are easily and practically explained with the help of clear diagrams. ASK MONTY is the essential guide for horse lovers everywhere.

Listen to and communicate with your horse-successfully
""This is a book for everyone who has ever looked at the constantly increasing list of methods and systems marketed as 'horsemanship' and wondered which of the many possible approaches would be most suitable for a particular behavior problem. Gincy Bucklin has distilled her many years of experience with horses and riders into a very useful, step-by-step, hands-on book. Bucklin's writing is smooth and easy to read, and no matter where you open this book, you'll find that her deep respect and affection for both equines and humans shines through.""
-Dr. Jessica Jahiel, author of Riding for the Rest of Us
""Gincy Bucklin uses her decades-long experience with horses to answer that most frequently asked question: 'Why did my horse do that?' And she comes up with creative solutions that weave together traditional horse handling with the best of modern horse training, including my own personal favorite, clicker training.""
-Alexandra Kurland, author of Clicker Training for Your Horse and The Click That Teaches video lesson series
It takes time for a horse to learn everything we want him to know. If we don't make our intentions clear to him in ways that he can understand, or if we don't listen to what he wants, problems may result. Featuring easy-to-follow, step-by-step advice, What Your Horse Wants You to Know reveals how to communicate effectively with your horse to create an atmosphere of mutual cooperation.
What Your Horse Wants You to Know focuses on improving your horse's behavior on the ground, so you can develop relationship and communications skills without the more challenging problems that arise once you're on his back.
* Use your entire body to communicate with your horse
* Show your horse that you respect his needs and feelings
* Be patient and consistent with your horse while having fun
* Understand your horse's fears and overcome them
* Respond appropriately to physiological or nutritional problems
* Use praise to make your horse feel confident and successful

The USPC Guide to Bandaging Your Horse provides the kind of information all riders and horse owners need about leg care, bandaging, and keeping your horse's legs sound. It explains the many kinds of bandages and bandage materials, their purposes, and when to use them. Detailed drawings and step-by-step instructions teach you how to apply bandages for shipping, stable, exercise, and various treatment bandages safely and correctly. It also provides tips on the best types of bandage materials to use and making your own leg pads.
This guide will be helpful to Pony Clubbers and other horse owners and riders as well as instructors, trainers, and grooms who are interested in learning or teaching their students about bandaging and taking care of their horses' legs.

"Flyball Racing: The Dog Sport for Everyone"
Imagine four dogs, competing against each other side-by-side on two separate racing lanes. Then picture a packed crowd of spirited spectators waiting to hear "Get Your Ball" and the excited barking of the competitors at the cue to start the race. If you can envision racing lanes with four jumps, spaced ten feet apart, and a Flyball box at the end of each laneyou know the thrill of Flyball Racing. The anticipation of a great race is just one of the resaons that Flyball Racing has become such a popular sport for dog enthusiasts all over the world. The enthusiasm pervades this comprehensive book that includes all of the details about this fun and friendly competition.

"Flyball Racing: The Dog Sport for Everyone" is the perfect guide for everyone from the novice participant to the experienced competitor. You will be taught how Flyball Racing has developed from its humble beginnings in a wood shop to a sport that, due to its large number of participants, has become a more formalized competition. You'll find out that all breeds (including mixed breeds) are eligible for play, how to train your dog for the sport, the equipment you need and the rules and regulations that direct all facets of Flyball Racing.

Other chapters include teamwork and how to build your own team, the role of the North American Flyball Association, how to get into competition and how to host a tournament. There is even a special section that breaks down the individual parts of flyball training in a performance checklist. The text of Flyball Racing is enhanced by numerous photos of competition in action that illustrate the spirit of the sport. An indispensable guide toa thrilling relay race, Flyball Racing is the ideal book to own, learn from and refer back to as you enjoy the competition.
A Howell Dog Book of Distinction

Longeing and ground training are an important part of horsemanship, both in training the horse and in the education of the rider.
This book explains the principles of handling and training horses safely from the ground, including leading, teaching good ground manners, and preparation for longeing. It provides an introduction to longeing, equipment, techniques, and longeing for various purposes, including longeing to improve the horse's movement and longeing the rider. Because longeing is an activity that requires skill, knowledge, and safe techniques, The USPC Guide to Longeing and Ground Training is essential to understanding what you will need, what to do, and how long to do it safely for yourself and your horse.
This guide can be used by Pony Clubbers, instructors, and all horse owners who want to learn about longeing and how to use this technique safely to benefit their horses' training.
The Howell Equestrian Library

Knowing about horse conformation, movement and soundness is important to any horse owner, whether you are selecting a horse, judging horses, or evaluating a horse's strengths, weaknessess, and ultimate potential.
The USPC Guide to Conformation, Movement and Soundness clearly explains and illustrates good, functional conformation and movement, faulty movement, conformation defects, blemishes and unsoundnesses, their causes, and how they affect the horse. This guide will be helpful to Pony Club and 4-H members, instructors, horse owners, and anyone interested in learning about evalulating horses' conformation, soundness and way of moving.
The Howell Equestrian Library

Carl Hester is one of the greatest ever equestrians, leading Great Britain to Gold Medal victory at the London 2012 Olympics. In these vibrant memoirs, he tells the incredible story of the passion for horse-riding which revolutionised his life and made him the champion he is today. Carl grew up on the remote Channel Island of Sark, moving to the UK mainland at the age of 16 to work with horses, mainly as a way to leave home. He could never have predicted what a great affinity he would have for dressage. Carl's career enjoyed a stratospheric rise as he progressed from working as a groom/rider to riding international dressage horses full time for renowned owners Dr and Mrs Bechtolsheimer, to training his own horses, and other top riders, to international success. Carl's early career revealed someone capable of monumental achievements. He provides a rare insight into both the people and the horses that drove him to victory, initially the skewbald mare Jolly Dolly on which he won the 1985 Young Riders Dressage Championship. During the early 1990s he rode in the World Championships, the European Championships and the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, becoming Great Britain's youngest ever rider to compete in the Games. His riding skills have increased with age, culminating in the hugely successful years as part of the Gold Medal teams that won the 2011 European Dressage Championships and, of course, that made history at London 2012. He achieved both feats on the same extraordinary horse, Uthopia, while as a trainer he produced the even more remarkable combination of Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro. A first-class sportsman and a witty and engaging writer, Carl now offers his admirers the opportunity to read an intelligent, humorous and, above all, inspiring account of his life - from the ups and downs of his career to the motivations and techniques which have helped him to win 66 national titles, represent Team GB at four Olympic Games, two World Championships and seven European Championships, and become one of the best riders - and horsemen - in the world.