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Concepts and skills from the French equitation system, joyfully distilled for modern equestrians and the horses they love to train.

For three decades French Riding Master Cyril Pittion-Rossillon has lived and worked alongside American equestrians and their horses. He has learned from what he calls a "beautiful cultural exchange," where the riding and training styles from each place, rich in their own history and evolution, informs the other. In this, Pittion-Rossillon's first book, he illustrates what he has found in his years of education, experience, and this "cultural exchange" to be most helpful to the horse and most enlightening to the rider.

The French tradition of horsemanship is characterized by three principles:

Harmony

Lack of constraint

Respect for the horse

The result is what Pittion-Rossillon calls "a love letter from France to equestrians worldwide"--a way to approach connection and partnership with the horse that is both humane and successful. With simple, timeless explanations of these principles and practical exercises that encourage readers to explore them, The Horse Is Always First brings ideas to light that Pittion-Rossillon believes will help horses and riders of all levels, disciplines, and performance goals. His years of experience teaching adult equestrians help him frame his knowledge in a way that is highly approachable, and his passion for horsemanship and creative expression ensure an immensely enjoyable journey, from the book's thoughtfully crafted words to its unique, hand-drawn illustrations.

Designed especially for browsing and beginning with the lesson or exercise you need most, The Horse Is Always First seeks the well-being of your horse before any other goal. This is the heart and soul of the French tradition of riding. Let it be yours.

This is a book for all equestrians interested in increasing their understanding of classical riding theory and technique, and improving their horses' performance in fair and just ways.