questrian art is no more than asking the horse to give his all whilst respecting his development and his nature and allowing him to give what is asked with pleasure. And what could be more pleasurable than riding a happy, light, harmonious, graceful and cadenced horse! Equestrian art is neither a sport, nor a technique, it is an exercise in searching and patience. This is represented by riding master Nuno Oliveira who said the following: “I often meet very well dressed gentlemen with a nice tie and beautiful manners. Put them on a horse and they start hitting and spurring it. I don't understand this change. Do they simply have the appearance of civilized people when dismounted?”
Horses are sensitive and good creatures. Good manners on horseback is not just a question of common sense, you have to learn them first! Relaxation in the rider’s body so as not to block the horse nor rush it in its paces, the use of both natural and artificial aids with tact and finesse and of course time: since taking your time is the best way to save time!
Keeping control of your own emotions, remaining calm and patient. The horse is a mirror for his rider! Teaching this art is like a philosophy: students are always surprised by the approach behind the use of the aids to build up the horse’s balance. Technique comes first, but it is sublimated by the rider’s soul. For a trainer who wants to pass on his knowledge, nothing is as precious as the smile of a student getting off a horse, delighted at having felt their steed move in lightness in the miracle of the high school airs executed with grace and balance. Above all for the love of the horse but also for the sake of art...