This book is somewhat esoteric but does have some very good exercises for the equestrian. The author discusses how the rider's physical condition can improve riding ability and position. Also how other factors, such as poor balance and bad saddle fit can cause pain for both the rider and the horse. She explains how common training myths and rider interpretation contribute to physical discomfort and what the correct response should be in order to maximize rider/horse communication. She also covers common injuries and their causes, proper saddle fit, diet, pregnancy, and aging.

A series of tips signaling key points on health, fitness, nutrition, safety, and comfort. Discusses: * Biomechanic and anatomical considerations for women. ( I would have bought the book just because of these words!) * Stretching and Strengthening exercises to enhance riding performance. * Techniques to gain more performance with less effort. * Saddle balancing and fitting tips. * Safety tools. * Riding and its relationship to aging, pregnancy, and lifestyles... ( would have bought the book just for that 1st "A" word in this phrase....) * Nutrition and dietary factors in daily riding and competitions. "The author takes us through the changing dynamics of women on horseback, arriving at a new approach to riding effectiveness. Women now represent over 80% of today's horse enthusiasts and riders. The techniques, equipment and teaching methods used with horses, however, have not moved in step with the growing involvement and influence of adult and young women... until now." That's just the stuff on the cover! Here's another reason why I bought the book... calorie expenditures: 120 lb female grooming a horse for 30 minutes =207 calories! galloping for 20 minutes =148 " trotting for 30 minutes =177 " walking for 10 minutes = 22 " Hey! this mythical creature expends 554 calories/hour!!! amazing! In comparison to to other high activity sports like real swimming, cross-country running, galloping is next. Then tennis, then HORSE-GROOMING. then trotting is down 2 more categories including medium to low impact aerobics and snow skiing! Walking is pretty low down on the list... just a bit lower, though than sweeping the floor! Shock! We are in a high calorie burning, high energy activity! Ok, that's all the sneak preview you get! There are many more surprises and new thoughts in here for you to stumble into and exclaim.. AHA! or Wow in a reverent tone!

This was a truly delightful read. I have also read Midkiff's Fitness Performance and the Female Equestrian (also a good book to read), but this book really explores the connection between women and horses. It is obvious that she really loves horses. A good book to curl up with.

This was the most wonderful book I've read I do believe. It is obvious the author's love and understanding of horses. I felt like I should know this lady because I too grew up in the area she did so I could relate to everything she said about the people, as well as about horses and their personalities. I'd recommend anyone who truly loves horses to read this book.

This lyric, profound, spiritual book makes the heart of all horsepeople, female or male, truly fly without wings. You and your horse may gallop through the canyons of Wyoming or the parks of Manhattan, Midkiff's prose will enhance your journey.