Classical Dressage by Philippe Karl 4 Volume DVD Set

This four volume Classical Dressage training DVD series of films by the classical dressage master Philippe Karl, opens new horizons within the dressage world by demonstrating how misjudged and misunderstood the most brilliant ancient masters are at present.

Philippe Karl is one of the most outspoken critics of modern day dressage, having his roots firmly in Classical Riding and the philosophies of the old masters such as La Gueriniere and Baucher.

Phillipe Karl was a member of the famous "Cadre Noir" in France for 13 years. His riding technique is a feast for the eyes. He is also well-known worldwide as a riding instructor, trainer and author. His impressive and perfect classical dressage presentations are treasured all over Europe. In clinics and courses, he presents the knowledge and the aesthetics of the old advanced riders, adapted to modern times.

Philippe Karl Classical Dressage Volume 1: The School of Aids.

Philippe Karl 's philosophy for his training methods are based on understanding the physical and mental conditions of the horse, the ease of the aids and the horse's movements.

It is fundamental that the aids are taught clearly before the horse begins to do any gymnastic work. A lively mouth is essential for a real receptivity to the rider's hand. Complete flexibility of the neck is essential for neck extension and flexion of the poll. An introduction to training on two tracks completes the first part of this schooling series. Included in this volume:

• Lungeing
• Basics
• Easy in Hand
• Aids Under the Rider
• Lateral Work

Philippe Karl Classical Dressage Volume 2: The School of Gymnastics.

In the second part of this schooling series, Philippe Karl presents additional gymnastic exercises, which continue to further the horse's dressage training. He introduces the double bridle as an important aid for advanced gymnastic exercises.

Philippe Karl maintains that through combined lateral work, shoulder-in, counter shoulder-in, travers and renvers, the balance, suppleness and mobility of the horse are trained and established, resulting in a straight horse or a 'saddle horse'. Jumping on the lunge and under the rider is part of the basic training of a horse, as well as flying changes in the canter, which every horse can learn if prepared and trained correctly. Included in this volume:

• Canter
• Riding with a Double Bridle
• Combined Lateral Work
• Showjumping
• Flying Canter Changes

Philippe Karl Classical Dressage Volume 3: The School of Dance.

"Collection makes the horse look like a classical dancer" Philippe Karl. In this third step of training Philippe Karl uses the gymnastic exercises as previously demonstrated, to improve collection. Passage, pirouette and piaffe are the peaks of collection. A pirouette is the utmost of rotation of the horse around its quarters and only a supple and collected horse can manage this air.

The Spanish Walk is not only an exercise in preparation for the passage, but also a useful movement to improve the mobility of the shoulder and help further the union between horse and rider. Included in this volume:

• Pirouettes
• Piaffe
• Spanish Walk
• Passage

Philippe Karl Classical Dressage Volume 4: Training Progress "One year later"

Philippe Karl has based his training philosophy on one inspired by the most accomplished masters (la Gueriniere, Baucher, Beudant, L'Hotte etc.) and founded on an absolute respect of the horse.

Basic knowledge of anatomy, motion, balance, and psychology enables the rider to get the best from any horse without using force or constraint systems (side reins, running reins etc.) His training system is not only a pleasurable experience for horse and rider but also the kindest and most efficient way to achieve a real collection and an expressive horse both on the flat and over jumps. Sampaio (6 year old Oldenburger stallion only ridden for two years) and Quiela (8 year old Luisitano stallion ridden for three years) have already been seen in the first 3 parts of this 'Classical Dressage' series. Now, one year later they both show how they have developed.

Running time approx 46 mins each DVD.
Language English and German
PAL and NTSC formats