David and Karen O'Connor's On Basic Horsemanship series, Volumes 1, 2 and 3 in one convenient set. — Volume I: Communication on the Ground — David O'Connor begins the series by working on a rope to explain his philosophy of... more » communication by the application and release of pressure. David then concludes by working a horse free in the round pen, demonstrating how the same principles apply.
Volume 2: The Principles of Flat Work
David and Karen now apply those same techniques while riding and training on the flat. The continued philosophy of application and release of pressure is clearly demonstrated to produce a relaxed working relationship between horse and rider.
The rider's position and the use of aids are also clearly demonstrated by David and Karen.
Volume 3: The Application of Principles for Jumping
David and Karen are joined by four students to help give a more varied demonstration of simple jumping exercises. The students are put through a number of routines over show jumps in order to clearly illustrate how the principles shown in the first two programs apply to jumping a fence or a combination of fences. David and Karen then execute the same exercises.
To end the series, the group moves on to cross-country and David and Karen demonstrate how to achieve maximum success and enjoyment in jumping natural fences by adhering to the lessons taught throughout the series.
