The USDF Guide to Dressage: The Official Guide of the United States Dressage Federation
In this, the official guide to the United States Dressage Federation (USDF), Jennifer Bryant demystifies basic dressage techniques for riders of all disciplines. Assuming no prior knowledge of the sport, The USDF Guide to Dressage leads you through a full course of exercises, from simple to complex, illustrated by easy-to-follow full-color photographic sequences. This authoritative guide also includes the dramatic and colorful history of dressage; an overview of proper terminology and...
Search in google:
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 skillsand 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.
Foreword\ Preface\ Acknowledgments\ Part I. Preliminaries\ 1 Origins and History\ 2 Are You Dressage Material?\ 3 Dress for Success\ 4 Outfitting Your Horse\ Part II. Basic Training\ 5 Selecting an Instructor\ 6 Your First Dressage Lessons\ 7 The Training Scale\ 8 The Walk\ 9 The Trot\ 10 The Canter\ 11 Basic Dressage Movements\ 12 Training and Cross-Training\ Part III. Showtime!\ 13 Letters and Levels\ 14 Know before You Show\ 15 Show-Ring Attire and Turnout\ 16 Show-Day Pointers\ Part IV. Physical Education\ 17 The Fit Dressage Rider\ 18 Your Dressage Partner\ 19 Keeping Your Horse Sound and Healthy\ Part V. Fun Extras\ 20 Dressage with a Twist\ 21 Learning outside the Arena\ 22 Must-See Shows and Events\ Part VI. Appendixes\ Appendix A: All about the USDF\ Appendix B: Dressage-Related Associations\ Appendix C: Resources\ Appendix D: Outfitters\ Glossary\ Photography Credits\ Index
