Customer Reviews

Horse Gaits, Balance and Movement (Howell Reference Books)

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An excellent presentation of the elements of balance in the horse's movement at various gaits. The illustrations (Did Ms Harris do them?) are grand and support the text very well. It is an excellent resource.

I would recommend this book to anyone looking to fully understand the basic gaits, movement and conformation of the horse. There is information on the natural gaits of the horse and how a rider can enhance or hinder the horse's movement and balance. The format will assist both novices and advanced equestrians. It is written in easy-to-understand language. The information is also very accessible simply by browsing through the illustrations. This book would be a great addition to any horse enthusiast's library.

Yes, Ms. Harris did the sketches. Her sketches really capture the movement of the horse and enables you to breakdown the gaits and jumping actions to see what is really happening. Utterly fascinating!

I absolutely hate to use the cliche statement "This is THE book you should read"... but this book IS that book. If you want to advance your knowledge and UNDERSTANDING of movement of, and with, horses... I mean to a clearly superior level - "Horse Gaits, Balance and Movement" by Susan Harris is the book you want. You cannot just read this book. You will find yourself studying it, poring over it, saying "Aha, so that's why....", and "OMG, why didn't I realize that when I was riding yesterday".
Whether you are an ultra-serious and scholarly student of things Equine or a more casual reader looking just for a better sense of how to enhance your riding performance (and make it easier for both you and your horse), and improve your care of your horse , you will find Harris' book a clear, tremendously informative, enjoyable read. But be prepared - you will be going back to it so often you'll wish she had made the book so it would fit in your pocket. And DON'T lend it to another rider without taking their saddle as collateral!

This book is very complete with information and diagrams for all parts of the horse and how they move. Well written and a great resource to refer back to. Lots of detail on muscle groups and what they do. If you are interested in bio-mechanics, this works! I do lots of ground work with dressage horses and rehab for injured and arthritic horses. This resource is particularly helpful for me.

This is a book that every beginner rider should own but will only truly understand what is written once they gain experience. Every rider should own this book. It will really improve your understanding of the way horses move with or without you on their back. In turn, the way that you ride will be fluid and in motion with your horse.

A must for every horseman or horsewoman. By understanding gait, balanace, and movement, you don't get in the way of your horse...you begin to influence and ask at the right time... This understanding leads to a better partnership between you and your horse.

If you are a true horseperson - you must have this book. I've personally met the author many times and I cannot explain how much knowledge she has and SHARES with others. This is one small and might book. GET IT - READ IT, CONTINUOUSLY. You cannot learn everything with just 1 read. Not only is Susan Harris an amazing author she is one of the most generous, caring horsewomen I know. I wish I knew 1/2 of what she knows/teaches/shares!