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Sally Swift's Centered Riding was published in 1985 and has helped countless riders and horses ever since. This is a book I recommend to all my students and to which I return myself over and over again. (There are also videos available but I don't find them nearly as effective as the book.)

This isn't a book that will teach you how to ride if you've never been on a horse. Rather, it's a book for riders who already have an idea what they're supposed to do but want to ride more freely and effectively in harmony with their horses.

Starting with the four basics of the correct use of the eyes, correct breathing, centering and building blocks or balance, Sally Swift takes riders through a series of exercises and images to achieve the coveted deep, following seat at all gaits.

Her knowledge of human and horse anatomy and how they intersect, combined with eastern ideas of energy and body control, help riders approach their horses from a fresh perspective. The half halt becomes clear, bending makes more sense and impulsion is demystified.

Sally Swift's approach helps riders become part of their horses' movement rather working to stay on top of it. I can't recommend this book enough whether you're a relatively new rider or someone who has spent years learning through traditional techniques.