What have I done to my horse? Many riders see classical equestrian art as something desirable. The old masters are revered, and many trainers and even veterinarians emulate them, confidently passing on their teachings. The rider who loves their horse and strives to do the right thing is led to believe that these practices are beneficial for the horse's gymnastics and health. This book reveals how brutal the methods of the old masters truly were and why this has persisted in equestrianism to this day. In the second part of the book, it is analyzed how a change in consciousness occurs and how to overcome the mental barriers that have been instilled in traditional riding. Where is the art of riding? - more and more horse lovers are asking themselves. This question is being raised increasingly loudly and demands an answer.