Product Description

Once the domain of the equestrian elite, dressage (originating from the French word for “training”) is now the most popular equestrian discipline in the United States. Fueled in part by its visibility as an Olympic event, dressage participation levels have reached an all-time high.

This centuries-old practice of classical horsemanship, using time-tested and humane methods, is a slow process that requires patience and discipline, but is beneficial to every horse, regardless of breed. The goal of achieving seamless communication and dance-like precision with the horse appeals to riders of all levels, disciplines, and ages.

In this book, the United States Dressage Federation (USDF), whose membership has doubled in the past 20 years, demystifies basic dressage techniques for riders of all disciplines. Assuming no prior knowledge of the sport, The USDF Guide to Dressage leads riders through a full course of exercises, from simple to more complex, with easy-to-follow photographic sequences, all presented in full-color and demonstrated by outstanding dressage instructors.

This authoritative guide also includes the dramatic and colorful history of dressage, an overview of proper terminology and equipment, as well as information on competition, crosstraining for other disciplines, management of the dressage horse, cross-training for achieving rider fitness, and more.

This intricate ballet of athleticism and grace, demanding precise movement and excellent communication between horse and rider, is particularly appealing to the growing group of “baby-boomer” riders who are looking for opportunities to expand their riding skills and knowledge without the physical challenges and risks involved in jumping and racing. Whether they’ve been in the saddle for years or are just taking up or renewing their riding practice, these eager riders will find The USDF Guide to Dressage key to building a more satisfying relationship with their horse.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #160752 in Books
• Published on: 2006-04-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 352 pages

Review

“Bryant gives a thorough discussion of what a rider needs to know to survive the entry into dressage….It’s a wonderful book...”

“This is an excellent book for all levels of riders…This fantastic guide will be a treasured work for students of dressage.”

“Whether the reader has been in the saddle for years or has just begun, The USDF Guide to Dressage offers an essential key to building a more satisfying relationship between horse and rider.”

“[Bryant] provides a solid overview of basic dressage movements and useful lessons that will help you and your horse learn as a team.”

Albemarle

About the Author
Jennifer O. Bryant is the editor of USDF Connection, the member magazine of the United States Dressage Federation. Her writing has appeared in numerous equestrian publications including Paint Horse Journal, Horse & Rider, and Horse Show. Jennifer lives in Chatham, New York.

Customer Reviews

Good basic introduction to dressage and riding
This book might better be titled "Introduction to Dressage." It starts with the basics, assuming the reader is not only unfamiliar with dressage, but unfamiliar with basic horsemanship. As an introduction, it is excellent.

However, as a recent convert to dressage after years of riding hunt seat, I was hoping for something that covered more dressage-specific information. I was disappointed to find that this book tops out at Second Level. The buyer should be aware that although the book covers some lateral work like shoulder-in, it does NOT cover the higher levels of dressage, including half-pass, piaffe, passage, canter pirouettes, etc.

A must have, must keep book!
Occasionally there are books that cross my desk that are so stunning and exciting that everything else is put aside because I'm compelled to read the one that just arrived. The USDF Guide to Dressage by Jennifer O. Bryant is one of those 'must-read' books.

Dressage is a French word for training. The USDF Guide to Dressage is the official guide of the United States Dressage Federation and is a 352-page, in-depth and comprehensive manual of all things dressage. It is must-have book for anyone who participates in or is interested in dressage.

The book explains the history, the required attire, tack and equipment, training, competition, selection of an instructor, physical training and so much more. The vast amount of information is accompanied by photographs and diagrams for the visual learner.

I loved learning about the history of dressage and who judges the events. But, as someone who doesn't know much about dressage, the section on competitions really drew my interest.

I would suggest that this book is the 'bible' of dressage. It is not a loaner because it will never be returned.

Armchair Interviews says: If you're interested in or participate in Dressage, The USDF Guide to Dressage is required reading. It will not only contribute to your education but will provide continual enjoyment.

The Dressage Solution!
This is a mammoth book and encompases everything dressage. As a former Dressage and Saddle Horse Judge I decided to purchase this book as it was written presuming readers needed no prior knowledge of the art. An excellent book for someone starting out in this field and also a must-have reference book for the initiated. I do like the way it covers Bits to Saddles and even covers further reading, outfitters and all that sort of nitty-gritty. The one small fault I found was with the item about "on-the-bit". It clearly states what it is, how it should look, above/behind etc, and gives some possible reasons for this - but unfortunately there are no suggestions for exercises to help put your horse on-the-bit. Personally I should have liked to see a section on "how-to-do" and some exercises to help with this manoeuvre to help riders to work along correct lines towards this goal. "Commonsense Dressage" by Sally O'Connor gives a beaut description of how to work to achieve this. Otherwise this is an excellent book.