For those of us in the U.K who haven’t studied European classical riding, this principle may not entirely make sense. Most of us probably haven’t ever considered using a ‘single …
Principle 2. The double pillars disappear in favour of work in hand
In the classical schools of Europe, in addition to the use of the single pillar to teach suppleness and straightness, a horse’s education was furthered by placing him between two …
Principle 3• Bits are reduced to their simplest form
The next two principles are essentially about equipment, and yet they are central tenants of the French school. Why is ‘kit’ – or the lack of it – so important? …
Principle 4. Nosebands, if not removed altogether, are never tight
Recently, having saved up my pennies, I decided to buy my horse a nice new bridle. I knew what I wanted and phoned the supplier. I said I would like …
Principle 5. Auxiliary reins are banned, on the lunge as well as under saddle
These days amongst students and colleagues, it is so rare to see anyone using ‘auxiliary reins’ that it’s tempting to brush over this post. However, I know that out there …
Principle 6. A rational education to the aids
A rational education to the aids (firstly from the ground and then from the saddle) is preferred over authoritarian gymnastics. In this context… the horse’s willing participation and the intelligent …