The Spanish Riding School of Vienna 07

[@elizabethcoombe248]

I actually owned one of these beautiful horses who had retired! They are amazing and teach you a lot. The “Airs above the ground” are all battle moves that protect the rider.

[@lyndafayesmusic]

Yes, so gentile and allot like big white teddybears ?! We saw the real Lipizzaner stallions performance in Chicago in the 70's and they were beautifully pampered well-trained , might I say LOVED animals! But when I moved to California, the "advertised" as "ThevDancing Lipizzans" were all fake shows! A white horse doth not a Lipizzaner maketh! Having learned how to ride on a deer-like-spirited Hackney Pony, I know my horses; and we asked for our money back! (Of course I'd been warned before we came to California, that almost everything there is made of plastic! At least the horses were white, and real, and sadly, always being controlled by either the big ugly curbed bit, or sometimes hackamores---which we all know is "Control by denying the horse to breathe!" Ah, don't get me started! ONLY AUSTRIA KNOWS HOW TO GET THE BEST PERFORMANCE OUT OF THEIR BELOVED ANIMALS !

[@Kateyangyuqing]

Wow you are LUCKY! What an incredible experience that must have been.

[@Kateyangyuqing]

@@lyndafayesmusic Wow that is so sad :( The result of the Austrian horses here is from having a lifetime of being cared for with sensitivity from the day they are born. From the stud farm they spend their first few years to the Spanish Riding School, not a shortcut is taken. But there are sadly too many people out there who want certain results without the prerequisite time and effort. The consequences are disastrous for the animals :(

[@lyndafaye6748]

I forgot what I wrote and none of the browers are allowing me to share today; Thanks Microsoft. can you email me at LYndaFayeSmusic@gmail sorry! Now that IS sad!

[@horseDreamerss]

Me too

[@selkiemoon7665]

The horses are not in pain. These stallions are trained for 4 years with the best care possible. This breed of horse was once war horses and the breed was almost lost in world war II. The moves they use were moves done by the riders to keep others away from them. They are not in pain and are simply trained that way. There's foam because they're working out.

[@awg_332]

now if only the FEI dressage horses were trained this way then maybe their careers would actually last and they would live longer without joint injections and a bunch of other crap

[@melissazietz1241]

I could be wrong, but I think one of the major reasons these horses don't get the injuries other performance horses do is that they are not started until they are four or five, when their bodies can handle it. Racing in particular is notorious for starting horses far too young, and having them break down. It's so sad, especially when the fix for it is so simple. Just let them grow!

[@DanishButterCookie]

@@melissazietz1241 The lipizzaners live freely in pasture until 3 years of age and are brought in for slight training then. Spanish horses are known for growing fast, and even then they only bring in them for light starting at 3.

[@Kateyangyuqing]

I would SO love to see more GP dressage tests that had the kind of quality as the SRS... In a GP dressage test, when a horse is trained with patience and compassion and ridden softly, it has such a beautiful result. But there are so many that don't seem to be. I love dressage but I also find it frustrating to watch at times. In the Olympics one of the Austrian competitors was ex SRS and there were also some horses that were ridden and trained beautifully. And when they are, it's so smooth and harmonious. When they're trained with shortcuts, it's clunky and the horses look stressed out. ** If you read the following paragraph, please bear in mind that I'm not an expert and what I am writing is from my own observations and assumptions, so it may not be true. ** I think one of the problems is that from my observations, the judging doesn't appear to place enough emphasis on the training scale at GP. The higher the level, the less the training scale seems to influence marks. Competition riders are riding a test to get maximum MARKS, rather than riding and training for quality's own sake. If the marks were rewarding solid training more, then people would be forced to do it. A lot of people claim that it's judges being biased towards big names. Judging is very technical and they undergo a lot of training to try to ensure that the marking is uniform as possible across the board. If anything, big names may have more influence in the training systems judges undergo, but I think it's more that some of the big names know how to squeeze the most marks out of a test and perhaps focus their training efforts and test riding around that. One thing that really puzzles me greatly about GP dressage test scoring is: why are horizontal (non-sitting) piaffes getting 10s at all let alone so frequently? I understand that it's harder for some horses to sit than others. However if a horse finds it harder to extend than others, they will be marked lower. That's why certain breeds and breeding is favoured for top level competition - if horses were marked according to their perceived ability we'd be seeing everything from Thoroughbreds to Welsh Cobs in GP (they're capable of it; it's just harder for them to move like the big scorers do). I understand if maybe someone prefers to do a more horizontal piaffe if it's easier to transition between piaffe and passage that way, but why is the piaffe getting a 10? If someone rides a more conservative extended canter because they're preparing for the upcoming flying change or to "keep the lid on the simmering pot", that extended canter is NOT going to get a 10. So I don't get it. Why are less than "Excellent" piaffes getting 10s so frequently?

[@BrendaLaffoon]

These are almost magical and stallions have a mind of their own. I am told I started riding at the age of 2 when my uncle plowed the garden. I had show horses until I had to quit riding at age 79. I always had American Saddlebred stallions and I loved them. They were known as the Peacocks of the show ring. I still have all of my trophies, usually 1st place.

[@angelagirdlestone7521]

This was on my bucket list,To go to Vienna to see these amazing horses and riders, but managed to see this show in London.I was in this audience. How lucky was I.

[@dobermommartha]

How wonderful! I am currently reading a book entitled “The Perfect Horse” by the author Elizabeth Letts. It’s about Lippizaners and how Germany tried to abscond with them as the breeding template for warhorses for the SS Soldiers.

[@kathleenhutter4412]

Wow, I did not realize until now, that they are riding without stirrups. The amount of training that goes into this show has got to be incredible! Well done

[@СибирскийКот-р5и]

Сапоги со шпорами

[@LiMaking]

I would guess, that the stirrups wasn't invented at the time of the invention of this type or riding and battle moves.

[@lynnevarley8433]

The airs above ground cannot be executed with stirrups. Each rider has spent at least 2 years on the lunge and then up to 10 perfecting their skill. The training of each student takes as long as it takes. They have rigorous tests to pass before they become bereiters. A first chief rider I had the great privilege of training with, took 12 years to train his brown stallion. Traditionally the brown stallion leads the quadrille. The SRS is unique in its approach to the haute ecole. Absolutely incredible.

[@Natural_ShowmanShip]

Yes correct. It's less abusive to living creatures.....or something s 7:10

[@cardinalfox0734]

​@@LiMaking stirrups have been around for thousands of years.

[@laragrove75]

These horses try so hard, it’s amazing

[@mephistophelescountcaglios1489]

DU BIST SCHON

[@averagekiwiconsumer9977]

@@mephistophelescountcaglios1489 SIMP

[@comesahorseman]

Careful training over many years develops this kind of cooperation.

[@hannahc6049]

The people that call this abuse need to learn about these horses. Sorry. But none of them are in pain, they are all in self carriage, no tie downs, what more can be done?? Lets do Levade tackless!! These stallions and studs are treated like kings, they literally live in a castel. All the movements can be seen in wild horses, and are taught over a decade so the horse is strong enuogh. These stallions often perform into their LATE 20's!! Which makes sense, since they aren't started until 4/5, before which they live in a natural herd. Stallions are hard, even gelded ex studs, and Lipizzaners are a bit of a temperamental breed. A side effect of being the most intelligent breed i have ever worked with. You cannot break them, they will fight even the most gentle attempts to be dominated. They love to work, they love having a job, i see it with my Lipi mare. These are some of the best riders in the world. They ride for years with out reins!! Once they have reins, they still have years of school before they are in the show, just like the horses. As for the horses being tense, this is not their home arena, they are in a different ring, possibly on a another continent! kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5vbgqCDnquifdk kzbin.info/www/bejne/jGGzeWWlp917pJY Watch these. They show wild studs, and the SRS.

[@q1z2e3r4]

Hannah Horres finally somebody who understands that... uff, I thought nobody would see it like me

[@hannahc6049]

Lara H watch the stallions here. Yes, they do Piaffe, Passage and more, mostly while impressing mares and other studs. kzbin.info/www/bejne/omjNaKOlrraJo5I Or watch this documentary about the Lipizzans. kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5vbgqCDnquifdk

[@probablymalware9904]

Do you not see them foaming? Do you not see the bits? Do you not see the nose bands? Do you not see the spurs on the boots of the riders, and the way they yank at their mouths? They look so uncomfortable, and it’s so obvious, it’s odd that you can’t see it. These horses can’t escape the pressure and pain their mouths because of the restricting nose bands, and they are forced to perform while being jabbed in the ribs with metal spikes. I’m sorry, but there is no way they ARENT in pain.

[@hannahc6049]

Skyorose again, TSRS teaches Classical Dressage, with positive reinforcement aka treats. Most of their practice sessions are public anyway, so getting away with harsh riding would be hard. These riders are not "yanking", they have better hands than most riders. The dont touch the curd reins most of the time. kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5vbgqCDnquifdk This is a good documentary about the Lips and the SRS.

[@kaja9043]

Lara H How old are you fuc*ing twelve!? People like you piss me off, they see abuse in everything. This is not abuse!

[@patwatson6468]

Saw them in London several years ago, absolutely mesmerising. Something I will never forget.

[@phantomsoulplayer]

Goodness if yall would actually look you would see 90% of the time there is slack in the curb rein and the riders have still and careful legs with their toes turned in so the spurs aren't even on the horse. It's uniform for tradition and not always needed. In higher training the goal is to use the smallest aids possible. There are people who misuse them and abuse horses with these things but in the right hands they are just training aids like the knots on a rope halter or a lunge whip. You can cause pain with anything when you are looking to do it even bitless bridles and your legs.

[@Kateyangyuqing]

I think a lot of people see bits or spurs and cry "ABUSE!" But they aren't experienced enough to actually recognise abuse when they see it. They are just repeating what they've heard somewhere else. They don't see the slack in the curb (aka no leverage is being used), they see the spurs but don't know the purpose of spurs nor can they see that the spurs are practically not even used. They seem to think spurs are for jabbing horses in the tummy to make them move? (They're for nuanced communication and ONLY if you have a completely independent seat and complete control over every muscle in your legs and then only in very specific circumstances that don't include jabbing your horse in the belly). Additionally there are some people who know nothing of horses, see them doing fancy things and assume its all through abuse. In fact, those people are not giving enough credit to the intelligence of horses! You will only ever get the best out of a horse that loves his job, full stop! Unfortunately not every horse owner is sensitive to their horse's needs. Some are blatantly selfish and neglect their horse in lieu of their own ambitions. But these Spanish Riding School guys really treat their horses very well. These are all stallions that live harmoniously together, a situation only possible when they're happy. Try getting a bunch of frustrated stallions together and live to tell me all about the chaos that ensued. It would be an interesting story indeed. Abuse happens and it should be called out when it does. But the Spanish Riding School is definitely not abuse. These guys ride so beautifully and softly, their hands and legs are so gentle, they are taught with sensitivity and compassion, the horses' every needs are catered for. The beautiful result is because they enjoy their lives, otherwise they would have soured and would certainly not be doing what we are seeing. For every situation that is wrongly labelled as abuse, you are actually normalising real abuse by plonking it in the same category as responsible horsemanship. Focus your efforts on horses that really are abused, because there are plenty of them out there.

[@linabasilisk1955]

@@Kateyangyuqing You're probably right. Too many people read Black Beauty and think they're horse experts.

[@Kateyangyuqing]

@@linabasilisk1955 I definitely think you're right in that people look at Black Beauty and don't understand that horsemanship isn't about cruelty; in the same way that the Dreamworks Spirit movie makes people feel that only feral horses are "free" and happy (if I had to choose between working an hour a day and having a long, healthy life with friends, safety, and all your needs catered for, or having a short life being pursued by predators and illness, I know what I'd choose!) Black Beauty was significant for its compassion in a time that abuse was much more normal in managing horses (but not by all, and not through all of history - Xenophon for example showed that horsemanship has been around for a long time, and that people have known for a long time that getting the best out of a horse is about good and fair horsemanship). And the English had a lot of practices in general that were, by today's standards, extremely cruel towards other people too. Consideration and empathy for animals, although felt by some people, were not as widespread as it is today, so it was a significant book. At its core, those kinds of comments, even if they're ignorant, mean that a lot of people care about the wellbeing of animals and that's wonderful, but I ask people to please understand that most people with horses adore their animals and try to do their best, even if you may not agree with some practices (like the bit/bitless argument). There is indeed a lot of abuse towards horses too and that should absolutely be held accountable, but please try to understand the difference between a well loved and cared for horse and a genuinely abused one :)

[@linabasilisk1955]

@@Kateyangyuqing My issue with Black Beauty is that it doesn't distinguish between good horsemanship and abuse. I am glad that many people want to see horses treated well, but well intentioned amateurs have caused at least much suffering as they've relieved. If people want to prevent abuse of any animal, they need to learn enough to know 1) what is abuse, 2) things they can do that will actually help. Besides, I get sick of explaining to people that lunge whips and crops are used to cue the horse, not beat it. I've trained a horse from filly to saddle trained mare. I used methods in line with horse psychology and the nature of that specific horse. I can no longer use her, but an autistic girl is currently using her (which is proving to be good for the mare and the kid). I don't hold with harsh or abusive training methods, not least because they are counterproductive. Working with a horse is about the relationship you and the horse have. The basis of any relationship is trust. The mare I trained is super easy going, in part because she has never known a human to do anything that would make her mistrust them (and she just has a nice temperament; that's part of why I picked her out of a group of foals). If people want to read about horses, I recommend the books by Marguerite Henry. She wrote some excellent books and actually seemed to know one end of a horse from another (unlike the author of Black Beauty). My favorite books of hers are King Of The Wind and The White Stallion Of Lipizza. I first enjoyed them as a kid. I must confess that I still enjoy rereading them every now and again (I'm over 40, I decline to say by how much).

[@Kateyangyuqing]

@@linabasilisk1955 Beautifully written!

[@cynthiao.warner9979]

I saw these beautiful horses practicing at the Potomac Horse Center in Potomac, Maryland in 1964. It was before their performance at the Washington DC International Horse Show. I was pregnant and two weeks overdue, but I was determined to see them practicing because I probably wouldn't make it to their performance. My beautiful daughter was born 4 days later.

[@PippiOnePointOh]

I grew up watching the movie The Miracle of the White Stallions about the Spanish Riding School, and then in the 90s my family was living in San Angelo Texas and they came and did a show! I was able to see them in person, after being enthralled in their story for so many years. It was amazing.

[@thaliarojas6763]

Those horses are absolute studs, its actually really hard for horses to go up on their hind legs because they're supporting all their weight on only two legs, so doing all those tricks with a person on the back is impressive, they trained them very well. For those that might get the wrong idea, if you notice after they do a hard trick the riders make them walk it out so that they're not putting too much strain on the horse, also the riders pat their horses after the tricks too which is awesome, make sure to thank your horse after a ride.

[@cindyrissal3628]

They actually ARE studs...stallions. The mares do not perform...

[@SandraOrtmann1976]

Training-wise, they get the real deal. You can achieve such art only with time and patience. And very careful selection. This is basically their ticket to become breeding stallions, when they have proven they can do it. There is no more careful selection in the world than that in Vienna.

[@lynnevarley8433]

Every movement is developed from the horses natural paces. The airs above ground are developed from each individual stallions ability when at liberty.

[@tayaschleusner6506]

My parents took me to see the Lipizzan horses when I was a child. I remember that it was exciting waiting for the date of the performance, and by the time it finally came I could hardly contain myself. I see myself sitting there, mouth wide open in awe of their beauty and eyes a little clouded from slight tears at really seeing them in person. They were MAGIC... white angels with four legs and I couldn't tear my eyes off of them. It was a tour entitled Airs About the Ground. I was so focused it was just myself and that deep ring of horses and the music. Power, beauty, majesty, grace, mystical magical creatures that 'flew' above the ground . When I saw it performed I felt as though I'd seen one of the seven wonders of the world! It is at least 55 years ago but I remember it as yesterday. Such a wonder they are.

[@ritamariekelley4077]

You captured the spirit of the little girl perfectly. They still take my breath away.

[@user-ll7zc4hw6g]

I also saw them live when I was about 5 or 6, and my memory matches yours. Before that, I'd practically memorized Marguerite Henry's Album of Horses, which featured a STUNNING watercolor by Wesley Dennis of one of these horses, mid-air on a lunge line. I'd stare at that picture and wonder what it would be like to see one of these horses, let alone ride one. Never got that ride, but the images stay with me... and still make me smile and look up videos like this on KZbin.

[@novasarts2750]

Do people even know how to research anymore? Or do you all just assume everything is abuse automatically? If you find something that is “strange” or “abuse” then look it up and you’ll be surprised. Look up real abuse. If it’s a discipline you’re unsure about or a breed, oh hey, look it up. It’s not that hard now and days to look something up and learn something. Stop being so sensitive.

[@horselover4492]

Novas Arts fun fact there are different levels of abuse some are worse than others for example this in the vid the horses look like they are in pain (bits in the mouth and spurs and according to your logic of looking things up u can easily look this up) and this isn’t considered abuse to many even tho it inflicts much pain but there are worse things like starving an animal ,beating the living daylights out of an animal, and much more. But i do agree that people do find something strange and call it abuse even tho its not weather u were talking about this vid or not i expressed what i saw and thought already

[@melissazietz1241]

@@horselover4492 You can also find plenty of research to support the opposite view: that bits and such are not inherently harmful. It sounds to me like your idea of research is watching Rick Gore's channel.

[@comesahorseman]

@@horselover4492 pick up a copy of the late Mark Russell's book "Lessons in Lightness." In it, he demonstrates how to use the bit properly to teach relaxation of the jaw and the entire topline. A bit is just a tool, and any tool can be used properly or improperly.

[@IMKeo]

in some moments in this video the horses show a distincitve movement of the tail, foam at the mouth, and have their ears moved outwards. all three are clear signs of distress and pain in a horses body language. maybe its because their heads (some of them) are bend beyond the vertical which is proven to be extremely damaging to a horse and can result in lasting nerve damage. as an expert of research, its should be easy for you to look this up and learn somehing. why dont you also look up how these horses are held - they have no pasture, and are in a tiny stable in the middle of the noisy city (i ve been there a lot of times) and are in their boxes 22/7. ever since the vienna stables has been privatized, the horse wellbeing has gone down. its a lot more about money nowadays then it is about actual good riding. so, you could practice what you preach and actually research a bit. look it up and you might be surprised;)

[@tinyspyro8163]

@@IMKeo you are spouting nonsense.

[@thesnuggler9606]

Beautiful animals and excellent technique. Piaffe, Levade, Capriole... It's really amazing to see! Very talented riders too!

[@nobitsnoshoes]

i want to visit The Spanish Riding School so badly. have wanted to nearly my whole life. the beauty of riding & the breed stills my breath & brings me to tears every time i watch them. this is the only way i'll ever see them. have reached the point in my life of knowing i'll never get to Austria.

[@alvenaroulston]

Was just there, beautiful grounds. Stables spotlessly clean. I loved it!

[@karendegraaf1146]

They used to tour, check to see if any still do...

[@seasands7259]

Any of you with your negative comments, if you even ride, can you say your horse can move with such fluidity, relaxation and thoroughness? I think not, or you wouldn't say such things.

[@horselover4492]

Sea Sands its not about they way the horse moves that is wrong its how the riders achieved these things (maybe whips of course we would know, spurs are pain full on the sides, and the bit in the mouth which doing some simple research can prove how damaging that is) if they didn’t use anything painful then this performance would have been just fine

[@melissazietz1241]

@@horselover4492 They didn't look in pain to me, but then I'm sure you are a Rick Gore crony and believe even looking at a horse is abusive, so I'm sure you see pain and abuse in every step these horses take.

[@KJ-xx6xr]

@@horselover4492 Do some research it can take YEARS for these horses to be ready to perform, if they used whips and spurs they could have them ready in 6 months. They don't even get ridden till they are 4, most don't get anywhere near a performance till they are 10. There are multiple books on how these and other classical baroque horses are trained, including former people that worked at the Riding School as riders and moved onto other careers of training horses. You can't BEAT a horse into a levade, and you sure can't spur and whip one into a Ballotade, Courbette nor Capriole, and you can't train a horse to do the move if it doesn't naturally do it anyways. Bits in the mouth don't do damage unless you are a moron that shouldn't be on a horse because you have "heavy hands" and like to yank on the reins, and better yet, don't know how to fit a bit and seat it correctly. Somewhere Alois Podhajsky is spinning in his grave at your comment.

[@lyndafayesmusic]

They're a "special breed" and I hope they can keep it that way! I remember the day I was offered to ride my friend's thoroughbred - An experienced rider, and the darn horse TOOK THE REINS AND ME for a terrible ride without my "knowledge!" ! We saw the real Lipizzaner stallions performance in Chicago in the 70's and they were beautifully pampered well-trained , might I say LOVED animals! But when I moved to California, the "advertised" as "ThevDancing Lipizzans" were all fake shows! A white horse doth not a Lipizzaner maketh! Having learned how to ride on a deer-like-spirited Hackney Pony, I know my horses; and we asked for our money back! (Of course I'd been warned before we came to California, that almost everything there is made of plastic! At least the horses were white, and real, and sadly, always being controlled by either the big ugly curbed bit, or sometimes hackamores---which we all know is "Control by denying the horse to breathe!" Ah, don't get me started! ONLY AUSTRIA KNOWS HOW TO GET THE BEST PERFORMANCE OUT OF THEIR BELOVED ANIMALS !

[@nemo7782]

A ray of sunshine in a dark, cold world.

[@holly.andhorses]

that is a good quote

[@ThomasScott-yi5up]

We saw this show in Vienna in Oct. 2022. What a place! My bucket list item did not disappoint

[@michellenainkristinabusch1221]

When I saw them in real life, I was completed. So beautiful

[@tracywilson1356]

I got to see them as a child at Arizona State University when they toured the US in I think 79 or 80? It was the most amazing thing. Even as an untrained child I could see the absolute control and mastery of the riders and the precision training of the horses. It’s amazing the level of dedication, time, effort and training the riders put in with their horse. Years of work to achieve this.They looked so happy. An absolutely beautiful breed. This is how dressage should look. Precision, control, minimal use of aids, balanced, willing, happy horse.

[@dionnemortimer8800]

It's so nice to have a proper example of piaffe and passage to put against what gets rewarded in modern "dressage" today. The judges at the grand prix level should be ashamed... it's politics and money over correct movement and the horse's wellbeing. Makes me sick.

[@talesseadolfson4313]

I love all the pony club kids thinking they are experts. You go ride one of these stallions if you know how to do it.

[@silverkitty2503]

You don't think they have stallions in pony clubs? BTW i think the riders in this are excellent and treating the horses well. IMO a lot of the people narking it are not really in pony club.

[@nemo7782]

Better yet, see if they will accept your commands to do what their training has instilled in them. I don't think you will enjoy the lesson you receive from them.

[@walkerrodeo651]

There isn't really a reason to say that. You can be a good rider without needing to ride one of these.

[@tailsnatched4642]

This honestly doesn’t make any sense. Your assuming about other people. For all we know they could be a world class dressage trainer. Or they could be someone who has never even touched a horse. I think they should try without bits. Idc if anyone says it is or isn’t possible. Because it is. If my gelding, who jumped a fence, threw me many times, and ran into a fence can ride without a bit, I’m sure these amazing beauty’s can too. And if they are professional riders, then I’m sure they can manage it. I just want to see them let off on the bit a little, horses heads are not meant to be tucked for that long. You can see each and everyone of Those animals gnawing at the bit, and there faces being ripped off. This head ticking cause problems, so many problems, when they are older. I know they are stallions, trust me I know what they are like, but if it’s so troublesome, maybe not keep them stallions? Just a suggestion. It would make everything easier for the horse and the rider, less pressure, less urges, less god fucking damn ABUSE. I know these “professional riders” want to show off and say “oh look I’m riding a stallion.” Or “oh look at how well controlled he is” then that’s stupid. Don’t you think it would be easier for the horse and rider? I mean if they can keep a stallion under that much control, they are basically controlling nature, then they must have used some sort of abuse. It’s just something that not many people talk about. Not many people think about what abuse is and isn’t. But if someone is physically or mentally hurting someone or something, and it doesn’t matter if they mean to or not, then it’s abuse. Oki, I is done 😘

[@bl7817]

I can't make sense of your comment. The 'A1' level of Pony Club is qualifying for the Olympic equestrian team. Granted, the airs are not required in Olympic dressage tests, but I have no doubt that with the right horse and coach, most of the team members could learn them. But...continue enjoying Farmville.

[@Hewittgeorge]

When you ride a horse of this quality and training it’s sublime, when you connect with your own horse like this in any way it’s magical

[@haltersandhorses418]

Thank you for what you have created Alois pohdhajsky one of the original Vienna ridding school creators

[@comesahorseman]

Saw them perform at the old Boston Garden many years ago, maybe 1965. Beyond inspiring. Started riding lessons soon after. :)

[@abbyhunt5128]

Did anyone notice(Hannah, Im sure you did) these men are riding WITHOUT sturrips. Talk about strength an talent!!!

[@kalikalad8954]

Abby Hunt: I noticed, too. There was life before stirrups, you know! My instructor made us ride without stirrups constantly. Airs above the ground without stirrups is very similar to jumping 4 feet without stirrups; you get used to it. Eventually, it's no big deal. You don't need stirrups! Legs, people! Legs! :D

[@abbyhunt5128]

kalikala D absolutely true!!! You do get used to it. It becomes second nature. I never jumped or had the pleasure of doing dressage. I rode Arabians in Saddleseat and Western Pleasure but good horsemenship is good horsemenship!! I havent ridden in years but I still enjoy horses!!!

[@kalikalad8954]

Abby Hunt: I don't ride much anymore--I'm an old lady now, lol! But I totally love all horses, including my own now-retired pasture ornament.

[@theooogirl3495]

If you have control of an animals head you control the body. No need for stirrups when you have tension and a bit.

[@babsfocker7751]

I do it all the time, I have a bad ankle and big toe, I can't keep it in the stirrup very good, you just get used to it, it's actually very satisfying, especially the sitting trot

[@creativecustomsbynat555]

This is amazing. Also no, they are not war moves, its ancient dressage. Fun fact: The Lippizaners have a different center of balance then other hoses, so they can do the levade naturally

[@sauce10196]

That’s an awesome fun fact :D

[@cindyrissal3628]

Where do you think the idea came from in the first place? They are moves intended to keep a mounted soldier safe from infantry. Thats all mankind has been doing from the get-go is fighting each other. Of course, theyd watch young horses playing in the field & think, " Now how can i use that against somebody...?"

[@henrietta9394]

They are war moves. Ancient dressage is most likely derived from war horses.

[@mamacitadelosperros533]

I had the privilege to see them in 1971. They are magnificent!

[@maryanncannon5844]

I got to see them when they were traveling on the USA. Absolutely breathtaking

[@brendacooper5729]

Years ago I went to see a performance in Winnipeg, they had put plywood over the ice in the arena and I was furious to notice that one of the stallions had a bandage with fresh blood on it. The injured horse performed perfectly, was not limping at all, but I was still steaming. When the time came to do the "airs above the ground" the mc came out and explained the horse that normally did the difficult leaps had skidded on the plywood and scratched his hock, so they were going to use his understudy, but warned us that the young one was not very good at it yet. He was not, and the injured horse was so upset that another horse was doing his routine that he broke into the arena, dragging his groom behind him, then performed the entire routine without a handler. If they are properly lovingly trained, they love their work, bask in applause and have a geat life. Save your vitriol for the Tennessee Walker owners that torture and abuse their horses to get unnatural movements out of them.

[@jeanfish7]

@Brenda Cooper, I can imagine that....these horses either love what they do, or are given training jobs with new riders....they are equestrian rock stars ( with a mid evil twist)

[@salazarslytherin6575]

I now understand why the horse was so desperate to perform even when injured Horses will do that If people don’t properly understand yeah it does look cruel but these horses absolutely love what they do and the same with circus horses as well If they see that somebody else is doing what they are supposed to be doing the naturally they will want to go out and outdo the other horse but yes these horses are absolutely amazing

[@nabukiyako1957]

it’s beautiful how the horses are doing all the work and routine of their own will. You can see the horse is free to do whatever they want and are the ones eagerly dragging their riders forward into the routine

[@stewartanderson6560]

Don't talk shite, if you released y stallions into a ring with no rider theyd prance around and bite each other

[@spookynight135]

@@stewartanderson6560 No, not if they are trained.

[@lynnevarley8433]

If horses are at liberty no matter how highly trained they are they do revert to natural behaviour, that is true. However in the 40 years plus that I have worked and trained horses I have noticed that they do use the training they have received in their natural behaviour. My TB/CB, an old fashioned English dressage type quite rare now, would display using extended trot. Something he had been trained to do, not a natural ability for him like the modern warmblood types. The magic of training horses is that EVERY horse can be trained, but still retain their natural instincts which a good trainer learns to work with not suppress. The airs above ground are developed from the stallions natural ability in display and aggression. The training makes it controllable but the movement is natural.

[@naomivaux3433]

the horses are doing the work because the riders are that good. You dont see their minute changes in seat, legs and hands because frankly they are the masters of horse. The stallions are all extensively trained but so are the riders and have to train years before being allowed in to the ring. This is years of tradition and horsemanship you are watching. not to mention trust and skill between horse and rider.

[@conniecarey9645]

Absolutely amazing riding, horsemanship and horses!!!

[@scoobycarr5558]

You can actually thank Gen. George S. Patton of the U.S. Army for his role in the rescue of the famous Lipizzans from certain extinction at the hands of the Nazis during World War II.

[@melissazietz1241]

Yes, a fascinating true story!

[@LordoftheOzarks]

Thats not true at all. The US and the Brits actually armed their captured German soldiers because they offered to help protect the horses from being shot or worked to death by the Red Army communists. Look it up

[@liviu1266]

I hate when people bring up politics when it's not needed. No, America definetly wasn't a saint either in ww2 and this breed was saved through the combined efforts of many people!

[@franciscopino7552]

Such an ignorant mith. Lipizzianos are Spanish horses selected by its white coat. And no, no American soldier evoided the extinction of the Spanish horses, thats bs. On the other hand, the same ignorance displayed with that mith is the one displayed by people that cobfuses a specie with a breed.

[@doublegi2880]

@@franciscopino7552 they're half spanish, half arabic.

[@katiedid1851]

Oh man Fell in love when I saw the Disney movie, Miracle of the White Stallions. This is so wonderful Rider and horse are connected.

[@basenjisofmasiyarink1831]

I’ve seen them live in person but I just love watching these lovely Stallions.

[@mindiburns9422]

You can't get this with abuse! Don't you see the partnership between horse and rider. Heads are were they're supposed to be. Their movements are graceful and adept. Abuse horse will bit on a bit if it's causing pain. If you watch closely there is no tension in the reins so there is no torque on the bit which will put torque at the poll. Riders aren't doing anything but hold the reins. Most folks don't realize that this kind of riding comes from just riding hundreds of hours of riding. There is no abused horses here and if you're seeing it. Then shame on you! There is nothing but love and respect the horses and riders share together!

[@Izamota-q5v]

Why is the one horse foaming at the mouth then?

[@norbertfischer3563]

Es ist absoluter Blödsinn was Du hier geschrieben hast. Was zu sehen ist reine Tierquälerei. Die Pferde schlagen bei jedem Sporestich wegen heftiger Schmerzen mit dem Schweif. Die Kandare ist ein Folterinstrument und zwingt die Pferde längere Zeit zu einer unnatürlichen Kopfhaltung mit abgeknickter Halswirbelsäule. Dauerschmerzen sind die Folge. Wer das nicht glaubt dem fehlt das logische Denken.

[@martinalejandroruizpanting8503]

@@Izamota-q5vThat’s not foam, that’s a form of sweat on horses..

[@tashawoodmansee8118]

​@@Izamota-q5v When horses are "on the bit" meaning they are comfortable and accepting, they salivate heavily. Very common with well trained horses and riders. This won't happen if horses are hurting.

[@tashawoodmansee8118]

So elegant. Had the privilege of seeing several exhibitions by the Spanish Riding School and it's amazing! As far as concerns about abuse - these are not the "big lick" gaited horses that are subjected to tail setting, keg shoes and soreing. Practices the USDA is outlawing- good riddance! These horses are highly trained, very well cared for and treasured for abilities and temperament.

[@fredafantoni2524]

The horses are happy and have freedom of movement and that is in no small part because the riders have beautiful sympathetic hands, sit still and in balance with the horse. Beautiful to watch and to aspire to as a rider. Awesome.❤️❤️

[@avasmith2274]

Omg LOVE THE LIPPIZANS!!! Who else has read the story of the Lippizans "the perfect horse" By Elizabeth Letts

[@potatopotatoeOG]

Will read about it now😊

[@carlaperry1784]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate this. Everyone involved in this video.

[@user-ll7zc4hw6g]

These are the best treated, best trained horses in the world. The Spanish Riding School has an edict, which I feel is important throughout life when there is learning to be done: Young horse, old rider; young rider, old horse. That way someone always has the information. I rode dressage for about a minute and a half (too expensive!) and know how hard it is to get a horse to hold itself in such a self-contained and calm way. They make it look easy. A beaten horse could not do a fraction of what is in this video.

[@alvenaroulston]

They are treated like royalty! Big stalls, and one rider takes care of them. It's a 5 year course.

[@wilmavantrier2998]

What a beautiful horses almost like from a fairytale, I learned from a uncle how difficult some posture’s are for horses. Wel they have had a lot of training and are so gracious and elegant really unbelievable and wonderful ❤❤❤❤❤

[@peachy75019]

Watching Lipizzaners today because I'm reading a book entitled "The Perfect Horse" by Elizabeth Letts ... a great book BTW

[@littlerascaleventing]

I know right? I've read it too, and loved it. They are amazing!

[@maryslusarchuk3810]

You can tell that the leader of the pack is loving every moment!

[@paulrawnsley6644]

How beautiful are these horses xx

[@tseqnj]

Are they known for not riding with stirrups? Interesting. (PS whoever was in charge of lighting this show should be fired)

[@DinahAO]

Ikr. Bad lighting.

[@missgoldymsp1389]

Ikr

[@ellielouise4876]

Kara Manson Bsgo you missed the on more :)😂😁

[@ellielouise4876]

The E😂😂

[@ellielouise4876]

Kara Manson Bsgo wait my bad you did sorry didn’t see it 😂😂

[@rosariaflora81]

Magníficos caballos,inigualables en su elegancia y nobleza, pura raza española. Y bellísimo espectáculo.

[@KinikBerill2003]

Good performance. Happy and relaxed horses.

[@horselover4492]

Little Pony didn’t look very relaxed....

[@melissazietz1241]

@@horselover4492 Maybe not sitting-around-in-the-pasture-munching-on-grass relaxed, but they weren't scared or anxious or trying to run away. They looked as relaxed as possible performing such strenuous moves.

[@holly.andhorses]

is it just me, or are their reins much tighter than they should be? i know they want their horses to look pretty, but if i were a horse i wouldn't put up with such a tight rein

[@sjsisjsjks]

2:26 watch ears, mouth, tail and tell me that horse looks relaxed. The myth that an active mouth or salivating means bit acceptance is just that, a myth. The horse does this because the eating reflex is being stimulated; that's all.

[@whosriceisthat]

AWWEEE THEY WENT “tippytappy”

[@rachaelmiles8233]

Beautiful horse's, I've never ridden this breed, but first sat on a horse at the age of 5 years old and still love the animal.

[@hanygharib3029]

Superb as ever. I went to see the show in 1970 w my Australian fiancee' then

[@eleganthorse7743]

The value of this beauty is known only to those who adore it 🌠🌠❤️❤️👍

[@DinahAO]

Cute,well trained horses! If they are well cared for and happy, its all good. =]

[@mxllys_xo6071]

Erin Prior their not happy can you see how their heads are pulled back and they are foaming at the mouth poor things

[@mxllys_xo6071]

Why do they do this to horses😠

[@hannahc6049]

They are treated like royalty. Look up "Nature:Legendary White Stallions" its goes behind the scenes and shows how bonded these horses and riders are.

[@Jefferdaughter]

@@mxllys_xo6071 - Are you aware that some bits are made of 'sweet iron' to help horses salivate while wearing a bit? The horses heads are not 'pulled back'. Watch any western movie or old TV show to see that. The bodies and natural athletic ability of these horses is developed over many YEARS. The arch of the neck goes with the horse engaging the hindquarters and lightening the forehand - putting less wear on the front legs and lengthening the horse's life. Those who love horses would surely recognize all these movements that horses naturally do on their own - if the horse is healthy, energetic, and has enough physical development, and enough room (not standing in a box stall day after day, or in a tiny turnout). These movements are most likely to be seen when stallions are courting a mare, challenging another stallion, or horses are playing together. You did know that these are all stallions, right, horse lover?

[@melissazietz1241]

@@mxllys_xo6071 Where do you get the majority of your horse knowledge?

[@mimileggett7154]

Love Lippizans! Beautiful horses! So talented! Amazing Riders performing Airs Above the Ground without stirrups!

[@JavierBonillaC]

Those who say they like to see horses relaxed and not tense like this should upload a video of their horses munching hay. They love doing this and are most relaxed. Then upload the video and tell us when you get to 10 views. Also tell the 100 meter sprinters to take it easier on their knees; maybe get roller skates and be gently pushed by a companion while drinking cappuccino.

[@beverlylamon2169]

I saw them as a child, I went home and taught my horse. I could shift my body and he knew what I wanted.

[@marywelz9357]

SUCH BEAUTIFUL ANIMALS-LOVE HORSES!

[@Dicksonblue1]

Trop beau, magnifique ! Ce serait un bonheur d'assister à un tel spectacle ! Merci

[@RaraRemi_312]

What's the dance style the horse was doing at 2:36 - like prancing .... Piaffe?

[@pernillen8963]

Love this! The only thing I wanna pick on is the position of some of the horses necks and faces, they are not suppose to have their nose tip inside like the tip is pointing inward to the horse. But I absolutely love this!❤️

[@judy8117]

Most amazing horse's in the world,HISTORY♥️🐾♥️🐾

[@lemonadiewoodlander4290]

Everyone in the comment section: "THIS IS NOT ABUSE, GO EDUCATE YOURSELVES" Me: "How the fuck are they doing a whole-ass dressage show without stirrups??? Are their thighs made of titanium?????"

[@julieenslow5915]

These stallions are all so muscled up - due to their training. They take it slow so the horse builds the muscles needed to do a lavade or cabriole. It takes a lot of strength to go on their hind legs, strike a pose and hold it then come down. And the cabriole is obviously a rank up above that. Notice that the riders slip out of the stirrups when they do that. And I don't know what they call that move where the stallion goes up on two legs but stretched upwards then hops forward two or three times before coming down to all fours. 6:58 for example.

[@julieenslow5915]

Correction. None of them even have stirrups on the saddles.

[@theresonly1deano]

i dont see any abuse in this, the horses love this sport and have an excellent bond with their rider,

[@kaycoon4854]

Lacey the horse I would love to see them in a pasture with no rider! Au naturale! Just being a horse!!!

[@kayceadair]

@@kaycoon4854 They stay freely in the pasture till age 3 before they ever start their training.

[@pupu2410]

Very beautiful dressage.The only thing that concerns me is that the nose is behind the vertical but else this is very beautiful.

[@carlaperry1784]

Much of these movements cannot be accomplished without exuberance on the horses part. You cannot force or abuse to get exuberance from a horse. It’s a gift or inspired.

[@Chris__Wolf]

does anyone know what the spanish trott was supposed for in military use? (Levade and capriole are clear)

[@RaraRemi_312]

What is the music the horses are dancing to?

[@samanthalynne2362]

Absolutely beautiful

[@voiceofwisdom9596]

These horses are so graceful...anyone know what beed they are?

[@bristolhalle8463]

Lippizaner

[@joanne0862]

Is that live violins or from a played music

[@marcellebixby9831]

These horses can dance better than me. I really need to take some dance lessons. Lol.

[@holly.andhorses]

I am amazed every time i see these horses. wow

[@scoobycarr5558]

The Republic of Austria welcomes you, proudly brought to you by the Spanish Riding School in Vienna and the world famous Lipizzan Stallions.

[@macgirl1231]

Love the strength. Courage. Beauty !.

[@seasands7259]

Execution of movements they would had to do during war time!!!

[@Bada3618]

However the horse at 3:44 is MUCH more relaxed. There is no head shaking, the ears aren't pinned back, the face is relaxed. The little up and down of the head is the horse trying to balance up. The rider has quiet hands because he is waiting for the horse to come to him and balance. That was done beautifully. Both rider and horse seem to be working extremely well together. Overall though I don't appreciate the number of horses that are behind the vertical.

[@lindaterrell6104]

Bada3618 This isn’t the Olympics. It’s performance. And they are so seamless

[@themulticraftsinnovator7523]

ABSOLUTELY AWESOME !!!!

[@karenreeve2370]

Their routine each day, their every day handlers, feeding schedule and exercise/performance time make these horses feel safe, secure and happy. As for their "foaming mouths," one might think their mouth might start foaming as the master puts on the bridle in anticipation of a good meet!

[@lynnevarley8433]

Each rider has a pocket in their tailcoat where they keep sugar lumps as a reward. Also when a horse works properly ' on the bit' as these are, the flexion at the gullet causes the salivary gland to activate. It is not the same as the ' blue tongue ' effect seen in some warmbloods.

[@equinature8863]

LOVE Spanish horses! Since february I'm the proud owner of a 3yo PRE mare! Also teaching her the basics of the Academic art of Riding, you can follow our journey on my youtube channel!! Would love to hear your stories about horses in your life!!!

[@ponygirl6258]

Will follow your channel! I have 2 Paso Finos--the horses of the Conquistadores, smoothest ride in the world! Spanish horses are amazing.

[@equinature8863]

pony girl oh wow I would love to one day ride a paso-fino!! They seem so amazing! I have ridden an Mangalarga Marchador before, but she hasn’t perfectly mastered her gaits yet! She is the grey horse you can see in my vlogs! Thankyou for following!!!

[@sophielorber4571]

These horses are not spanish PRE! They are the Austrian breed Lipizzaner.

[@doublegi2880]

@@sophielorber4571 it's a slovenian breed. Original name is Lipicaner, their original stable is in Lipica. Still there, 480 years old.

[@sophielorber4571]

@@doublegi2880 Just because there's a stud in what tody is Slovenia they are not suddenly Slovenian. 😂

[@chayovallejo8571]

These horses are like i cant get jiggy with this music

[@natalya402]

My goal is to someday teach a horse classical dressage moves. Maybe not these ones because they require years of muscle and body training, but if I found a good teacher to help me I would love to try. This is much better than modern dressage.

[@brunochaves2290]

Lindos cavalos!! excelente espetáculo!!! parabéns!!

[@yrkanak]

How are the names of the riders and horses?

[@nitetrane98]

They're OK.

[@farahroeland8671]

OMG, did they do that stirrup-less????

[@donnaarmstrong9029]

I have a question and that is quite a few years ago the Lippizzaners horses visited Orillia, Ontario, Canada which is the city that I live in. They had a brown horse with them. The man said that it was the only brown lippizanner they new of at that time. Are there very many of them now?

[@lislisl]

Donna Armstrong "Brown Lipizzaners are rare. However, it is a tradition of the Spanish Riding School to have at least one brown Lipizzaner in their stables at all times: they are thought to bring good luck." thats what the Homepage of the Lipizzaner Stud Piber says, so I guess there are some

[@jeanfish7]

The show I saw ( early 1970' s) had a young brown Lippizaner...he only was ridden gently at a trot ( he was young), and yes, they are " good luck"

[@donnaarmstrong9029]

Jean do you know if they have any of them now. As far as I know they have never been back to Orillia since.

[@jeanfish7]

@@donnaarmstrong9029 no, it's been many years, but I do know browns are born at least occasionally...I would think the tradition will continue

[@donnaarmstrong9029]

thanks Jean.

[@HiMrMisha]

Bitte sagen Sie mir welche Komposition spielt?

[@pauloricardo-hp1iz]

Não tem como não se apaixona 💕

[@christineorlandi6215]

Saw them in Miami back in 1986?. Read the bio book . They are one of gods miracles. beautiful

[@moodmeow7899]

Does anyone know the name of the first song?

[@sanmat1099]

Does anyone know why the tail is tied up on one horse?

[@amberblyledge7859]

The tail is tied up to prevent damage to the tail or damage to the legs when preforming Capriole. Keeps everything all nice and neat.

[@jeanfish7]

@@amberblyledge7859 I spotted him for the " most experienced horse" because of the bound tail!:) good clue for newbies!:)

[@jac5824]

Poetry in motion!

[@cheyannerockett8870]

That was a beautiful performance. According to my research these horses have been trained for this practically their whole life! Why do they need two whips?

[@q1z2e3r4]

Cheyanne Rockett i think it has something to do with what they are performing, maybe they need them for giving the horse special comands or something

[@bristolhalle8463]

Lara H Nope It's called giving cues without reaching across your body, unbalancing the horse...

[@morticiaaddams7866]

They tap (JUST TAP) to give the horses cues

[@kalikalad8954]

Cheyanne Rockett: Yes, they train their whole lives, although they don't usually start until they are at least 4 years old. Most trainers start riding horses at age 2 or 3 (me, I would never get on a 2-year-old, but I will start 3-year-olds under saddle). The whip is an extension of the rider's leg (when mounted); when on the ground it is a training device, nothing more. The use of 2 whips is more precise than the use of 1. These are highly-educated horses in a very precise discipline, so exact instructions are necessary. Dressage whips are not used for punishment--only cuing.

[@jeanfish7]

@@kalikalad8954 actually, 5 before any real training...these horses perform into their mid twenties and many live well past 30. Youngest performance age is 8.

[@kaylove5751]

I AM STUNNED I LOVE THE HORSES PARTICAPATION!

[@Ceciel_]

Wait, do they even have stirrups? 😂

[@dmmchugh3714]

Beautiful....and rollkur-free I believe.

[@kikec.3177]

O fue improvisado o se lo prepararon muy poco porque en Jerez el espectáculo es mucho más impresionante.

[@sheenl1409]

Amazing Lippizan horses and the men too.

[@Ceciel_]

I made an edit of this, if you didn’t want/allow this please let me know and I’ll delete it asap😅🥰