Steinbrecht was born in 1808 and studied veterinary medicine in Berlin. He drew referenced physical therapy in humans, which was coming into its own during his adulthood, and the importance of applying the principles of physical therapy to horses. He frequently reminds the reader to always place the wellbeing of the horse above all training goals. He states that when beginning training, it’s important to remember soreness of muscles and limbs that result….horses experience these and need patient, gentle understanding as they train through them…not force.
He spends some time discussing balance. Balance is important to ensure that horse and rider are moving correctly together. He defines balance in this way: “Balance in connection with a moving horse is understood to mean correct, uniform distribution of the weight horse and rider on horse’s four legs.” ( Steinbrecht, p 52)
At rest and grazing the horse puts more weight on the forehand, which is not an issue without a rider, With the added weight of a rider however, it is important to protect the forehand by shifting the balance to the hind legs and hindquarters. Hind legs have angles and positioning which can power the horse forward and/or upward.
Correctly determining proper balance of horse involves feeling more than examination of conformation etc of the horse.
I have so enjoyed having a book study on dressage to carry me through the cold winter months! This winter has been fairly brutal, so riding times are few and far between. I look forward to putting into practice what we have been discussing in theory! Thank you!