Ritter Dressage Books
Our books and books we recommend
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Books Collection
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Our Books
Dressage Principles based on Biomechanics
by Dr. Thomas Ritter, 2012
Classical riding, in essence, is correct riding. Here, a thorough examination of classical riding is presented through accessible modern day examples. It also includes almost forgotten, yet essential, riding methods—such as the Stirrup-Stepping (weight aids applied with the stirrup) or ridden work with a cavesson. Other concepts include the aims of dressage; the system's essential gymnastic building blocks; breaking down blockages; essential riding skills such as sitting, feeling, and thinking; and the network of aids.
Also available on Kindle.
Long Reining: From the Beginning through the Levade
by Dr. Thomas Ritter, 2016
It is no wonder that more and more riders are discovering the old tradition of long reining for themselves. It helps the horse to improve his balance and ability to collect without the weight of the rider, and it lends itself well to training difficult movements in a horse friendly manner. Dr. Thomas Ritter explains the correct aids from the beginning through Haute École in practical terms. Thanks to the discussion of frequent mistakes and their corrections, long reining novices and experienced trainers alike can find much new information here. Many helpful tips invite you to experiment!
Also available on Kindle.
Books by Our Teachers
The Pure Teachings of Classical Horsemanship
by Egon von Neindorff, 2025
Egon von Neindorff, a master of classical dressage, devoted his life to preserving and teaching the art of classical riding through his renowned riding school in Karlsruhe, Germany. In this book, he shares his deep knowledge of horse training, emphasizing the principles of sensitivity, humility, and devotion, offering insights previously taught exclusively at his institution.
Kottas on Dressage
by Arthur Kottas, 2010
This book captures the practice and philosophy of a renowned international trainer, emphasizing the importance of correct rider posture, effective use of aids, and establishing a strong rapport with the horse. It offers a step-by-step approach to developing the horse’s mental and physical abilities through groundwork, basic gaits, lateral exercises, and advanced movements like piaffe and passage, while addressing common training challenges with patient and respectful solutions.
The Athletic Development of the Dressage Horse: Manege Patterns
by Charles de Kunffy, 1992
The Athletic Development of the Dressage Horse focuses entirely on classical manege exercises designed to supple, strengthen, and correct horses at all levels of dressage and combined training. Through clear explanations, diagrams, and photos, it demonstrates how to use true and counter patterns to enhance performance, suspension, and collection, offering riders a transformative guide to elevating both their horse’s athleticism and their own skills.
The Art of Classical Horsemanship
by Egon von Neindorff, 2009
Egon von Neindorff deeply understood the philosophy of classical riding, enabling him to guide students worldwide in developing their own style. Classical dressage demands affection for the horse, along with understanding, sensitivity, humility, and devotion. In this book, von Neindorff shares his profound knowledge of natural horse training, previously taught exclusively at his Karlsruhe riding school.
Dressage Solutions: A Rider's Guide
by Arthur Kottas, 2014
*Dressage Solutions* guides readers through key stages of training, from perfecting basic paces and introducing lateral exercises to developing the canter, rein-back, piaffe, and passage. The final chapter explores traditional High School movements, offering thoughtful insights and invaluable advice for riders dedicated to progress and their horse’s well-being.
Training Strategies for Dressage Riders
by Charles de Kunffy, 2003
Training Strategies for Dressage Riders is a masterful guide that blends the science of equitation with the art of dressage, offering a comprehensive training system for both horse and rider. Filled with practical advice on topics like rider development, gymnastic exercises, and classical equitation, it inspires readers to achieve "equestrian elegance through effectiveness" while elevating their partnership with their horses into a harmonious art form.
Dressage Principles Illuminated Expanded Edition
by Charles de Kunffy, 2024
This text is a favorite of riders and trainers alike and stands as a cornerstone of Charles' writings: to treat our horses with dignity, respect and kindness. This edition will be treasured and referred to often. The chapters are succinct, and cover essential topics that need to be embedded in the minds of riders and trainers.
The Ethics and Passions of Dressage
by Charles de Kunffy, 1993, 2013
The Ethics and Passions of Dressage invites readers to recommit to the art of riding and the traditions of classical horsemanship, exploring questions about the rider's responsibilities and the essence of true equitation. In this expanded edition, Charles de Kunffy provides insights into non-confrontational training, correct riding principles, and finding classical instruction, while offering additional chapters and thought-provoking wisdom to inspire and challenge the dedicated equestrian.
A Rider's Survival from Tyranny
by Charles de Kunffy, 2012
Charles de Kunffy recounts his privileged yet turbulent youth as a European nobleman during World War II and the Hungarian Revolution, finding solace and survival in the classical art of horsemanship. Vividly portraying his mentors, 'professor' horses, and remarkable characters, this poignant memoir weaves tragedy, humor, and equestrian salvation into a testament to resilience and grace under tyranny.
Im Damensattel. Eine Reitlehre fĂĽr die Frau.
by Dorothee Faltejsek, 1998
This beautifully illustrated book offers a rare and detailed exploration of sidesaddle riding, blending historical insight with expert riding theory rooted in classical training traditions, including those of Egon von Neindorff. Drawing from the author’s extensive experience with classically trained horses, it is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of sidesaddle riding and equestrian training. In German.
Other Books we recommend
The Gymnasium of the Horse
by Gustav Steinbrecht, 2017
Gustav Steinbrecht's Gymnasium of the Horse is a timeless classic in equestrian literature, bridging the traditions of 18th- and 19th-century biomechanics with the foundational principles of modern dressage training. Packed with deliberate insights and enduring wisdom, it remains an essential resource for dressage riders, offering invaluable guidance that has stood the test of over 130 years.
Complete Training of Horse and Rider: In the Principles of Classical Horsemanship
by Alois Podhajsky, 1967
Colonel Podhajsky sets forth explicitly and in practical, instructive fashion the step-by-step methods of training both horse and rider that are used at the Spanish Riding School.
Reflections on Equestrian Art
by Nuno Oliveira, 1999
Nuno Oliveira, trained by Jonquin Gonzales de Miranda, became a renowned figure in classical equitation, offering exhibitions and clinics across Europe, the USA, and beyond. Published in 1957 and translated into English in 1976, his book continues to be one of the most relevant and insightful descriptions of his approach to classical dressage, remaining timeless despite the passage of over 30 years.
Methodical Dressage of the Riding Horse and Dressage of the Outdoor Horse
by Faverot de Kerbrech, 2010
Faverot de Kerbrech’s Methodical Dressage of the Saddle Horse offers the definitive explanation of François Baucher’s second method, presenting a refined and practical approach to dressage that marked a departure from academic traditions. Complemented by *Dressage of the Outdoor Horse*, General de Lagarenne simplifies Faverot’s teachings for preparing a horse for outdoor riding, ensuring the legacy of Baucher’s second method is preserved and accessible.
Henriquet on Dressage
by Michel Henriquet & Catherine Durand, 2004
This beautiful book chronicles the training of three young horses, from their initial schooling to their execution of classical airs at age nine. Michel Henriquet, a true equyer in the classical tradition, guides the horses at his renowned establishment, Le Fief de la Panetiere, near Paris, attracting students and spectators from around the world.
The Way to Perfect Horsemanship
by Udo Burger, 2012
 First published in 1959, The Way to Perfect Horsemanship was immediately recognized as a classic work of equestrian literature. It offers insight into the psychology of the horse as well as its muscular system and the mechanics of movement. It explains in detail the basic principles of training, the fundamentals of riding, and the effect of training aids. Everyone, from trainers to occasional riders, will benefit from this book.
Equestrian Art: The Early Writings (1951-1956) of Master Nuno Oliveira
by Nuno Oliveira, 2023
Between 1951 and 1956, Nuno Oliveira penned approximately sixty insightful articles on horsemanship, which have now been translated into English for the first time. These concise, thoughtful pieces, rich with his equestrian intelligence, cover a broad range of topics, offering timeless wisdom on the finer points of riding and the horse-rider relationship.
The Wisdom of Master Nuno Oliveira
by Antoine De Coux, 2012
"Paroles du Maitre" by Antoine de Coux is the definitive English translation of the teachings of Nuno Oliveira, compiled from years of meticulous notes taken during de Coux's training with Oliveira. This book offers a rich, practical collection of the Master's wisdom, preserving his unique approach to teaching and extending his legacy for future generations of riders.
Truth in the Teaching of Master Nuno Oliveira
by Eleanor Russell, 2015
Eleanor Russell, a devoted student of Nuno Oliveira for over ten years, spent a year in Portugal studying horsemanship with her stallion, Victorieux, recording her master's teachings and lessons. This book offers rare, candid photographs of Oliveira’s daily work with horses, alongside practical, insightful lessons that reveal the secrets of classical dressage movements.
Equestrian Art The Collected Later Works by Nuno Oliveira
by Nuno Oliveira, 2023
These works have been re-translated from Nuno Oliveira's original manuscripts in both Portuguese and French. The collection of photographs is unmatched. Photographs are carefully reproduced and rarely seen images will come to light in this unique collection of texts.
My Horses, My Teachers
by Alois Podhajsky, 1997
This classic memoir by the former director of the renowned Spanish Riding School explores the age-old relationship between horse and rider. Timeless, inspiring, and full of valuable advice. A book every rider should read.
The Riding Teacher
by Alois Podhajsky, 1993
This book is a helpful classic for riding instructors. This book provides clear, concise instructions on giving effective instruction. This is a worthwhile book to reac and a good investment for dressage riders. You will appreciate the simple yet disciplined approach to training.
30 Years with Master Nuno Oliveira: Correspondence, Photographs and Notes Chronicled by Michel Henriquet
by Michel Henriquet, 2011
Henriquet's personal record of correspondence provides a unique window into the private problem-solving dialogue between master and student.
The Legacy of Master Nuno Oliveira
by Stephanie Grant Millham, 2014
This book is a compelling collection of reflections, lessons, and tributes that explore Nuno Oliveira's groundbreaking equitation, along with the author's journey studying under him despite a physical disability. Featuring rare photos and insights from international riders, it showcases Oliveira's legacy in blending classical techniques with Baucherism to elevate equitation to new heights.
Dressage in the French Tradition
by Dom Diogo de Bragança, 2012
Dom Diogo de Bragança, a renowned equestrian and one of Nuno Oliveira’s finest students, presents a thorough analysis of French dressage in this seminal book, blending his vast knowledge of horsemanship and academic studies. This revised edition also includes a chapter on bullfighting dressage, showcasing the breathtaking precision and beauty of horses in this specialized art.
François Baucher: Including: New Method of Horsemanship & Dialogues on Equitation
by Hilda Nelson, 2013
François Baucher, a controversial figure in the development of modern equitation, is now recognized for his contributions to classical dressage, including the introduction of one tempi flying changes at the canter. This work combines translations of his key writings with a scholarly study by Professor Hilda Nelson, offering a deep insight into his methods and the debates surrounding them.
The Rider Forms the Horse: Function and Development of the Muscles of the Riding Horse
by Udo Burger & Otto Zietzschmann, 2024
In this clear and accurate English translation, Udo BĂĽrger and Otto Zietzschmann explore the essential principles for ensuring the health, performance, and longevity of the riding horse, offering guidance on designing proper riding lessons and training sessions. With endorsements from experts like Klaus Balkenhol and Gerd Heuschmann, this book is a crucial resource for riders, trainers, judges, and veterinarians, emphasizing the importance of understanding the physiological basis of training to avoid injuries and develop top horses.
The Art of Riding: Classical Dressage to High School – Odin at Saumur
by Philippe Karl, 2017
In this new edition, French riding master Philippe Karl writes about training horses from a very personal perspective. The Art of Riding documents the training and development of the Lusitano stallion 'Odin’ according to traditional French classical principles, from young horse all the way up to High School.
Twisted Truths of Modern Dressage: A search for a classical alternative
by Philippe Karl, 2008
One of the most outspoken critics of the modern dressage world reveals some disturbing facts about the physical, anatomical, and mental effects through official dressage guidelines as issued by the German Horse Society (FN) on horses. By comparing these with philosophies of masters of classical riding such as La Gueriniere and Baucher, he shows possible solutions to the challenging situation of modern competitive dressage.
Long Reining: The Saumur Method
by Philippe Karl, 2003
This classic book demonstrates the French method of training a horse in long reins and how it is possible to attain as high a standard of schooling from the ground as that reached under saddle.
Dressage Principles and Techniques: A blueprint for the serious rider
by Miguel Tavora, 2018
Miguel de Lancastre e Tavora was a master rider, trainer, and instructor. His genuine love and care for the well-being of horses comes through on every page. His Kind, calm, and methodical approach is laid out in a progressive sequence that adheres strictly to the principles of the FEI.
Academic Equitation
by General Decarpentry, 2012
First published in 1949, Academic Equitation is considered one of the most significant contributions to classical dressage training in the 20th century, offering a systematic program that spans from early training to advanced movements. Combining scholarly knowledge with practical application, General Decarpentry draws on the methods of D'Aure, Baucher, and L'Hotte to provide valuable insights into training young horses, advanced schooling, and the traditional art of equitation, ensuring these teachings are preserved for future generations.
The Art of Horsemanship
by Xenophon, 2013
Xenophon's The Art of Horsemanship is the first known work on selecting, training, and riding horses, offering timeless wisdom on horse husbandry that still holds relevance today. This easy-to-read and engaging translation provides insight into ancient Greek equestrian practices, blending affection for horses with practical advice for anyone interested in horsemanship or the history of cavalry.
Francois Baucher's latest Principles and Teachings
by Faverot de Kerbrech, 2023
Translated in 1935 by Dressage Master Einar Schmit-Jensen, this work by Faverot de Kerbrech preserves the essence of François Baucher's last equestrian ideas, which were at risk of being lost after his retirement and limited public teachings. Schmit-Jensen's careful translation, based on his own studies with Baucher's pupils, ensures that these vital lessons remain intact for future scholars of classical dressage.
Ecole de Cavalerie (School of Horsemanship, Part 2)
by Francois Robichon De La Gueriniere
Ecole de Cavalerie by François Robichon de la Guérinière is a foundational text in classical dressage, introducing revolutionary techniques like the shoulder-in, which continue to be practiced at the Spanish Riding School. Revered as a timeless masterpiece, it remains a cornerstone of modern dressage, with superb engraved plates by Charles Parrocel, and is considered one of the most influential equestrian works ever written.
Horsemanship: A Comprehensive Book on Training the Horse and Its Rider
by Waldemar Seunig, 2003
"Horsemanship" by Waldamar Seunig is a comprehensive and enduring work that covers all aspects of horse and rider training, from foundational skills to haute Ă©cole. Seunig, a distinguished rider, judge, and educator, brought his extensive experience from the French Cavalry School, the Spanish Riding School, and the Yugoslavian Cavalry School to this influential book.
The Quest for Lightness in Equitation and Equestrian Questions
by Alexis-François L'Hotte, translated by Hilda Nelson, 2021
This well-researched book explores the life of the great French general, Alexis-François L'Hotte, and includes Hilda Nelson's full translation of his seminal work, "Questions Equestres", now titled "Equestrian Questions". A distinguished pupil of both François Baucher and Comte d'Aure, L'Hotte's contributions to equestrian theory, particularly his efforts to address military equestrian challenges, solidified his reputation as one of the most outstanding écuyers of his time.
A General System of Horsemanship
by William Cavendish, 2012
This classic work, originally published in French in 1658 and later translated into English, stands as both a beautiful masterpiece of equestrian literature and a pivotal contribution to the development of equestrian technique. With its superb engravings and revolutionary emphasis on systematic, humane training, Newcastle's *General System* has left a lasting impact on the art of riding, blending wit, wisdom, and lasting influence, while remaining a rare and treasured book for horse and art lovers alike.
Horses and their riders
by Nuno Oliveira, 1988
This out-of-print work by classical dressage master Oliveira offers detailed guidance on the training of young horses, from their first lessons to achieving self-carriage, along with insights on horse selection, lunge work, and teaching riding. The book also features student notes from Oliveira's clinics, complemented by numerous photos and diagrams to illustrate his methods.
Dressage in Harmony: 25 Principles to Live by When Caring for and Working with Horses
by Walter Zettl, 2016
In the late 1990s, Walter Zettl recognized the widespread desire for classical training knowledge and wrote this book to address the lack of a clear system for its delivery. It serves as both a comprehensive guide and practical reference, offering clear chapters on each training stage, common problems, and sensible corrections focused on the horse's well-being.
Principles of Dressage
by Kurt Albrecht, 193
This book is designed to appeal to the serious dessage enthusiast, written by the former Director of the Spanish Riding School of Vienna. Chapter subjects include the underlying principles of the aids, aid application, reflections on the art of horsemanship, the education of the horse and the role of the Spanish Riding School.
Foreign Language Books
Dogmen der Reitkunst
by Kurt Albrecht, 2001
In German.Â
Ausbildungshilfe fĂĽr Pferd und Reiter
by Kurt Albrecht, 2008
In German.Â
Meilensteine auf dem Weg zur Hohen Schule
by Kurt Albrecht, 1983
In German.Â
GrundzĂĽge der Reitkunst
by Gustav von Dreyhausen, 1996
In German.Â
Die Dressur des Reitpferdes for Turnier und hohe Schule
by Richard Watjen, 1922
In German.Â
Ăśber die Reitkunst
by Otto von Monteton, 1877
In German.Â
Leitfaden zur systematischen Bearbeitung des Campagne und Gebrauchspferdes
by Ernst Friedrich Seidler, 1837
In German.Â
Die Dressur diffiziler Pferde, die Korrektion verdorbener und böser Pferde
by Ernst Friedrich Seidler, 1990/1846
In German.Â
Die Logik in der Reitkunst
by Peter Spohr, 1903
In German.Â
