Customer Reviews

Spirit of Sideways Movement 3 & 4 [VHS]

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Nice video to watch him ride his beautiful Lusitano stallions. It would have been nice to also see him ride some 'problem horses' in a clinic to see what a difference his style makes when he rides a horse with difficulties. Too many times one has to see the same pictures of him riding around his farm. Some of the interview sections were too long - the book explains it a lot better. If I buy a video I want to see more 'hands on' material than talking. The 2 videos could have easily been combined into one and sold for less. $ 79 is definitely way overpriced for what you get.

This whole series of videos is quite lovely visually, and Barbier deserves a lot of credit for standing up for the principles of the often-misunderstood Francois Baucher and getting out hte word about lightness and harmony in riding to many people who have seen only the abuses of competitive dressage. That said .... the actual riding on these tapes is hand riding of the most severe variety, and while there are some very good things here, there are also many many things in the riding that it would be very sad to see people emulating. Enjoy the footage, enjoy the philosophy of lightness, enjoy the beautiful Lusitano horses .... but please think long and hard -- and watch video of other classical riders for comparison -- before you actually do any of this stuff!

This is a fantastic series as are all his videos and books. After 30 years of horse training, we are fortunate to have Mr. Barbier share his thoughts and experiences with us. He possesses a deep love of his work and his horses. He has an uncanny ability to "read" these animals and know exactly what to do to help them. His only motivation is to make the horses happy at what they are doing, and in the process transform both horse and rider. If you are truely wanting to seek that special relationship with your horse, Mr. Barbier wil show you the way.

These videos are a wonderful example of how we can truly connect with our horses, our friends. Under the pressure and politics of competition have we lost the true sight of why we wish to dance in balance and harmony with our companions? The training of the horse in true lightness and harmony with the rider is becoming a lost art. Lightness, balance, suppleness, impulsion, and harmony are not an illusion or a dream they are a result of countless hours and months, developing the horse as an athlete and freeing their minds and their bodies.

This being the companion (I believe) to his fine "Intimacy In French Classical Dressage " - I expected - and got- a wonderful continuation of seeing this master at work. I have read some to say that he makes it look too easy....possibly, but listen carefully - there is a wisdom about his approach that transends horsemanship.
Thank-you Dominique!