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Horse Books Reviewed
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For the rider who wants to progress in dressage, Dressage Essentials covers all the basics from choosing a suitable horse to riding a dressage test. After first laying the foundation by discussing the overall requirements of horse, rider and dressage test, Jane Kidd moves on to explain the basic "scales" of training: rhythm, balance, suppleness, connection, impulsion, straightness and collection and what they mean in each pace. Then it's on to chapters on specific movements arranged for easy reference. Each movement is described with aids, training exercises and common problems and corrections. The chapter on "Problems and Corrections" uses photographs and diagrams to show such common problems as on the forehand, loss of rhythm, above and behind the bit, head tilting and not working through with their possible causes and remedies. The photographs clearly demonstrate the problems. Finally, Kidd takes the reader through a competitive dressage test with advice on preparation both on and off the show grounds. Overall this is an excellent book for the serious rider starting out in dressage or a rider who just wants to understand more of the technique of the sport. It's not a beginner's book. Sensibly, it confines itself to the basic levels, laying a foundation for what comes beyond, but not muddying the waters with advanced movements before the foundation is laid.
The Horse
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