In English riding in America when I was young the standard training method was forward seat riding as advocated by Caprilli and Littauer. It was at a time when most riding was cross country, and both theorists were ex cavalry. The theory as I understand it is to train the horse to carry itself, to be flexible, and to use its own mind to solve problems. The rider did not attempt to dominate the horse, so the horse did not come to rely on the rider for all answers. This style was very effective for American riders in jumping competitions. The horse was taught through gymnastic exercises, and the main thrust of the program was the freedom of the horse to think for itself--a very American concept.

This program is in deep contrast to the German training system, where, as I understand it, the horse is taught NEVER to think for itself, but to be an extension of the rider's mind. The German system is based on domination rather than freedom. The German system is now reaching down even into the lower hunter/jumper ranks, as witness a series that has just started in Practical Horseman on starting horses the German way.

I have to say that this trend concerns me very much. In training, it seems to me that we have to take into account and use techniques and systems that will benefit the horse as much as us. They are, after all, thinking beings, with needs and wants just like humans. I think if my work consisted of being under the total domination of another person to the extent I would go mad.

I admit this is anthropomorphic, but I'd rather be antropomorphic than anthropocentric.