Monthly, throughout the winter months, Pam Larson led the book study based on The Gymnasium of the Horse by Gustav Steinbrecht. This thoughtful study gave a new depth of understanding to my own knowledge about horses and riding, but beyond that, it addressed many aspects about training which went beyond technique. Steinbrecht did provide detailed explanations of the mechanics of horses' movement and how training should proceed in alignment with the increased flexibility that will result from proper training. But at every step of the way, he reminded the reader of the importance of treating the horse with kindness and respect...never demanding more than the horse is capable of giving at any given point in the training process.
Steinbrecht stresses the importance of rider expertise, which requires a broad skill set. Some of the adjectives he uses to describe effective riders are: skilled, understanding, sensitive, quiet, calm, experienced, patient, observant to name but a few. At every turn he describes facets of a horse's disposition or conformation that will enhance or inhibit any given step of training. He will provide examples of how to emphasize strengths and offset weaknesses, but always provide the reminder that patience and understanding are of the utmost importance. Understanding why a horse struggles with something will help the rider address the weakness, and lengthen the amount of time needed for that particular step, and in some cases, reducing the expectation of a "perfect" outcome.
I would recommend Steinbrecht's book anyone who is riding and/or training a horse, whether you have the benefit of a professional trainer or are working on your own. Although the reading is sometimes "dense" it is most educational!
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