Anatomy of Dressage

Heinrich Schusdziarra and Volker Schusdziarra.  First published in 1978, this is Cynthia Hodges' 2004 translation, published by the USDF.

Originally published in German, Anatomy of Dressage comes as a translation of the classic work, providing riders with the anatomical basis for correct riding.  Only with a working knowledge of human anatomy can a rider fully understand the instructions given for correct position in the saddle and explanations of the movements. 

Within its pages you'll find a clear overview of anatomy as related to riding, aimed at the layman.  Working from this anatomical perspective, the authors discuss the individual requirements of riding theory: Part One - Anatomy: Body, Ligaments & Muscles, Part Two - The Requirements of Riding from an Anatomical Perspective: the seat, bracing the lower back, half halts and full halts, balance, the spiral seat and more.

Many of their conclusions may seem surprising to some readers, but it is a fascinating read.

Paperback, new