Tug of War: Classical Versus ‘Modern’ Dressage

Why Classic Training Works and How Incorrect ‘Modern’ Riding Negatively Affects Horses’ Health

German rider and equine veterinarian Dr. Gerd Heuschmann is well-known in dressage circles – admired for his plain speaking regarding what he deems the incorrect and damaging training methods commonly employed by riders and trainers involved in competition today. Here, he presents an intelligent and thought-provoking exploration of both classical and ‘modern’ training methods, including ‘hyperflexion’ (also known as Rollkur), against a practical backdrop of the horse’s basic anatomy and physiology. This book is the author’s appeal to:

• Riders – to use only gentle, progressive training methods in accordance with the time-tested principles of classical riding.
• Judges – to sharpen their eyes and recognize unnatural postures or forced movements and evaluate them accordingly in competition, while rewarding classically trained, correctly gymnasticized horses.
• Governing organizations – to review their regulations and uphold stipulated “ideals” on both national and international levels.  
• Spectators – to reject sensational performances and flashy tests when the methods used to obtain them have not had the health and welfare of the horse in mind.