| Many a novice rider has argued the superiority of their | | | | communicative handler. |
| chosen horseback discipline. While there are | | | | Whether you choose to put on jeans or tight fitting |
| equestrians that prefer the excitement of the | | | | breeches, whether your saddle is western or English, |
| hunter-jumper courses, others are addicted to the thrill | | | | your most successful riding education begins with |
| of barrel racing. Cowboys may opt for cutting while | | | | elementary lessons that impart a lasting appreciation |
| ladies across the planet can be found singing the | | | | for the horse's movement, strength, speed and power. |
| praises of dressage. | | | | Over time you learn to sit on your horse with steady |
| Despite the discrepancies in attire, you may be | | | | confidence, using your body and legs rather than your |
| surprised to learn that there are distinct similarities in | | | | hands for balance. You come to understand the |
| the basic premises that comprise the foundation of | | | | importance of giving clear, simple directives to your |
| most, if not all, equestrian disciplines. | | | | mount. Patience for your equine partner, and for |
| Listen to the directives and basic philosophies | | | | yourself, develop exponentially. |
| espoused by DVM Gerd Heuschman, the dressage | | | | Riding regularly with any seasoned expert, in any |
| master Walter Zettl, reining's Joe Ruiz and renowned | | | | discipline, will eventually provide you with a strong and |
| western horseman Craig Cameron and you will find | | | | reliable basis for your ongoing equestrian career. No |
| that all these accomplished trainers focus first on | | | | matter which arena you decide to compete in, or even |
| respect for the horse. | | | | if your horsemanship goals lead to long trails rather |
| The riders whom they instruct learn that relaxation, | | | | than a show ring, you will enjoy enduring benefits when |
| rhythm and understanding of the equine - in body, mind, | | | | you make a point of training with a masterful |
| spirit and nature - are paramount. | | | | horseman. |
| True horsemen (and women) know that horses do not | | | | Classic techniques and traditional philosophies will be |
| have a time table. They learn according to their own | | | | effective in any and all equestrian sports. You can't go |
| abilities, on their own schedule, with the gentle and | | | | wrong when you learn with the masters who abide by |
| patient assistance of a calm, confident and clearly | | | | proven, age-old expertise. |