The Horse Is Always First

Concepts and skills from the French equitation system, joyfully distilled for modern equestrians and the horses they love to train.

The French tradition of horsemanship is characterized by three principles: harmony, lack of constraint, and respect for the horse. For three decades, French Riding Master Cyril Pittion-Rossillon embodied this tradition as he lived and worked alongside American equestrians and their horses, exchanging a rich history of riding and training styles along the way. Now, Pittion-Rossillon shares the methods that his years of education and experience have taught him to be most helpful to the horse and most enlightening to the rider.

With simple, timeless explanations of these principles and practical exercises that encourage readers to explore them, The Horse Is Always First brings to light the ideas that Pittion-Rossillon believes will help horses and riders of all levels, disciplines, and performance goals. His years of experience teaching adult equestrians help him frame his knowledge in a way that is highly approachable, and his passion for horsemanship and creative expression ensure an immensely enjoyable journey, from the book’s thoughtfully crafted words to its unique, hand-drawn illustrations. The result is what Pittion-Rossillon calls “a love letter from France to equestrians worldwide”—a way to approach connection and partnership with the horse that is both humane and successful.

Designed especially for browsing and beginning with the lesson or exercise you need most, The Horse Is Always First seeks the well-being of your horse before any other goal. This is the heart and soul of the French tradition of riding. Let it be yours