Learn to ride correctly, safely, and confidently

In this breakthrough guide, renowned riding expert Gincy Self Bucklin offers adult riders a unique, proven method for developing a good physical, mental, and emotional relationship with a horse. Whether you're a beginner, a more experienced rider looking to enhance your skills, or someone who used to ride but is reluctant to try again, Bucklin's step-by-step exercises-slowly and carefully practiced first on the ground and then on your horse-will have you riding with confidence and without fear. You'll build a safe and caring partnership with your horse as you:
* Understand how your actions affect your horse
* Improve your form, release tensions, and find balance
* Communicate with your horse to gain his trust
* Stay in charge without being controlling
* Observe your horse's responses and learn from them
* Increase your horse's comfort-both physically and psychologically


"If you' ve ever said to yourself, 'Why can' t I . . . ?,' you' ll find the answer here to why you can' t, and exactly how to solve the problem. Whatever your level, you'll gain greater understanding and become a better rider and horseman from reading this book."
-George H. Morris, internationally renowned clinician, USEF Show Jumping vice-president, ARIA master instructor, and member of the U. S. Equestrian Federation Board of Directors

"How Your Horse Wants You To Ride is chock full of innovative and practical tools presented in a thoroughly entertaining style. A delightful read for riders at all levels!"
-Jane Savoie, olympic alternate and author of That Winning Feeling!, Cross Train Your Horse, More Cross Training, and It's Not Just About the Ribbons

Acknowledgments.

Introduction.

How It All Began
30 Years of Revelations.

PART I: Getting Started or Starting Over
Success Is Easier Than You Think.

1. Looking into Your Future
A Confident Rider on a Confident Horse.

2. Building the Foundation
The Seven Steps, Part One.

3. Meeting and Greeting
Good First Impressions Create a Positive Relationship.

4. Grooming, Tack, and Tacking
Talking to Your Horse in Different Ways.

5. Leading
Be in Charge without Being Controlling.

6. Mounting and Dismounting
Riding Confidence Starts Here.

PART II: Riding without Fear
Bareback or without Stirrups.

7. Sitting on the Horse
The Seven Steps, Part Two.

8. Communicating Considerately
The Stick, the Seat, the Center, the Weight, and the Eyes.

9. Free at Last!
Riding without Reins, Sitting the Trot without Stirrups.

10. Handling the Reins
Goofproof Your Moves.

PART III: Riding without Fear
Back in the Saddle and Using the Stirrups.

11. Settling into the Saddle
Adjust to the Difference.

12. Solving the Stirrup Problem
The Seven Seats, Part One: Full Seat.

13. Solving the Balance Problem
The Seven Seats, Part Two: Half Seat.

14. Posting the Trot
Perfection Is Perfectly Possible.

15. Cantering Basics
Just in Case.

PART IV: Helping Your Horse Do What You Want
The Leg and Rein Aids.

16. Using Your Legs
No Strength Required!

17. Understanding the Rein Connection
Use Your Hands Effectively.

18. Overcoming Rein Resistance
Simple Hand and Rein Effects That Work.

19. Putting the Aids to Work
Go, Turn, Stop, and Back.

Conclusion
Build Self-Confidence in Yourself and Your Horse

Be the Perfect Student.

APPENDICES.

Appendix A: Making and Fitting a Neck Strap.

Appendix B: Plateaus
Charting Your Progress.

Appendix C: The Flowchart
Where Can You Go from Here?

Appendix D: Resources.

Index.