03/06/2022
"A horse lacks structural strength to carry additional weight on his back. Yet, we make him do that every time we ride. We not only expect him to live happily ever after, but, in addition, optimistically expect him not to break down. We also expect him to move well, even better than nature would inspire him to move. This is a tremendous challenge for the rider. We must set about it properly, because if we make a mistake anywhere, we can damage the horse’s musculature and joints. The horse’s haunches include four joints: hip, stifle, hock, and fetlock. In order for the horse to propel himself with the foreign weight of a rider and equipment without damaging his joints, we must develop him gymnastically. This idea is analogous to the development of a human gymnast. What does a gymnast do to look so fabulously coordinated and so beautiful in motion? A gymnast has developed his joints and musculature properly, so that with minimum effort and strain and maximum efficiency, he can gracefully perform movements that depend on incredible power. Similarly, the goal of our equine gymnastics (dressage) is to develop the kind of gymnast that can maximize his floating suspension above the ground with minimum effort and utmost grace. This is the goal that we pursue."
Charles De Knuffy in Training Strategies for Dressage Riders