Everyday Training: Backyard Dressage

I borrowed this book from the library, and am planning to buy a copy of my own. This is an excellent reference book to go back to for training, warming up, and building up your horse's athletic ability and responsiveness. Whether you are an experienced rider, or new to horses, Mary's style of writing is down to earth, and the exercises she gives are explained very well. She gives the reasoning behind the instruction.

I have been recommending this book to people new to horses or who want to improve their riding and training ability for several years. Mary Twelveponies writes clearly and non-technically about riding and training your horse using dressage methods without scaring people into thinking they are going to getting in over their heads. She instructs the reader in how to be a better rider which in turn helps your horse become more responsive. She utilizes both western and english disciplines to show that anyone can accomplish the goals in this book. It was the beginning for me in learning how to train my horses. I am a strong believer in dressage as a foundation method of training a horse for any discpline you wish to pursue and Mary Twelveponies makes it easy to understand and incorporate. You and your horse will be happier!

Mary Twelveponies' book is a very practical,down-to-earth guide for those of us who want to enjoy our horses. This is not a guide to showing your horse,it is a guide for the average horse owner. It deals with problems we all encounter. Overall,I'd say I have thoroughly enjoyed this book. I bought it!