François Baucher

François Baucher (1796-1873) was a reformer who wanted to reinvent the art of riding. His system was based on the following principles: balance was something to be achieved before movement. For him it was the first requirement before any attempts were made to work on movement with the horse. It was necessary to separate the influence of leg and hand, and the horse was never to be confused by being driven on while being simultaneously slowed down by a hard (restraining) hand. A pliable, flexible lower jaw is proof of having achieved the balance und relaxation required for further work of any kind. The ultimate aim is the "lightness" of the horse towards all aids. Jean-Claude Racinet is devoted to "riding in lightness" on the basis of the teachings of La Guérinière and Baucher, who attempt to improve balance by relaxing the horse, especially in the region of mouth, head and neck, and reject the use of force when using the aids. This philosophy is actually the central tenet of the French riding tradition.