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Every horse person strives to grow in ability and understanding over time whether in the saddle, on the ground, or in the stable; whether in ways that are small or those that are significant. This effort, when done right, lasts a lifetime, and along the way requires the addition of knowledge and experience gleaned from numerous others. Where does one find leadership within the equine industry? How does one know to whom to turn for information? Does riding require an instructor, a trainer, a coach? Can you get by with part-time guidance? Can you effectively learn on your own, with just the occasional directive, and still find personal or competitive success? 

With this book, renowned clinician and international team coach Eric Smiley intends to fill the gap when it comes to these questions and others, providing a reliable resource and educational companion for any aspiring equestrian. Smiley addresses fundamental topics pertinent to riders, with philosophical discussion and practical exercises applicable to all levels. Along the way he strives to educate them on being taught, and perhaps, one day, becoming the teachers. 

His aim is to bring together the mind of the rider with the mind of the horse, while highlighting the key component in their synergy: understanding. How that understanding is acquired, retained, and put to use is the key to success.

Riding well can be a puzzle. This book puts together the pieces, including:

• How humans and horses learn.
• Striving for partnership vs. dictatorship.
• Early training and developing skills.
• Demystifying equestrian-speak.
• Dressage outside the arena.
• Ground poles for the rest of us.
• Jumping and cross-country tips.
• Solving problems, wherever you ride.
• Competition psychology.
• Being coached and being a coach.

About The Author: 

Eric Smiley is a former international event rider who represented Ireland at European, World, and Olympic level, winning team bronze medals on two occasions. Smiley began his equestrian career in the Pony Club, and continued it in the army and at the world-renowned Talland Equestrian Centre, during which time he gained his British Horse Society Instructor’s certificate. In 1995 Smiley passed his British Horse Society Fellowship exam, the highest teaching qualification in the industry. Smiley was Team Coach of the Belgian Eventing team for the 2011 European Eventing Championships and 2012 London Olympics and was an FEI judge who regularly acted as a Ground Jury member. Smiley is the author of the cross-country bible ‘Look … No Hands!’ and ‘Two Brains, One Aim’. He travels the globe helping professional and amateur riders achieve their goals.