16 Must-Read Horse Books Recommended by Top Equestrians

Are you a horse lover who enjoys learning? In this article, we've gathered a selection of horse books recommended by top equestrian athletes. All of these recommendations were made during conversations on the In Stride podcast.

Whether you're interested in horse training, horsemanship, or improving as an athlete, there's something on this list for you!

Autobiographies You'll Love

1. In the Middle Are the Horsemen by Tik Maynard

Recommended by Karen O'Connor, US Olympic event rider

‍Rating: 4.35/5 on Goodreads

Tik Maynard's book delves into the world of horsemanship, offering a unique perspective on building connections and understanding the equine mind.

2. Open by Andre Agassi

Recommended by Sinead Halpin Maynard, US 5* event rider, host of the In Stride podcast

‍Rating: 4.30/5 on Goodreads

Andre Agassi provides an intimate look into his journey from tennis prodigy, shaped by a demanding father, to an acclaimed champion wrestling with personal unhappiness and the complexities of fame, love, and self-discovery.

3. Life Will Be the Death of Me by Chelsea Handler

Recommended by Will Faudree, US 5* event rider

‍Rating: 3.76/5 on Goodreads

Chelsea Handler's memoir delves into personal growth, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness.

Sports Psychology and Mindfulness for Athletes

4. A Champion's Mind: Lessons from a Life in Tennis by Pete Sampras and Peter Bodo

Recommended by Lesley Grant-Law, Canadian 5* event rider‍

Rating: 4.25/5 on Goodreads

While focusing on tennis, this book explores the mindset of a champion athlete, providing valuable insights for personal excellence.

5. Atomic Habits by James Clear

Recommended by Sharon White, US 5* event rider

‍Rating: 4.39/5 on Goodreads

James Clear's book is a guide to forming and maintaining habits, helping you achieve your goals with practical advice and strategies.

6. Relentless by Tim Grover

Recommended by Tamra (Tamie) Smith, US 5* event rider and 2023 Land Rover Kentucky 3-Day Event CCI5* Champion

‍Rating: 4.18/5 on Goodreads

Tim Grover's book offers a blueprint for achieving relentless dedication and success in any field.

7. The Inner Game of Tennis by W. Timothy Gallwey

Recommended by Will Coleman, US Olympic event rider

‍Rating: 4.16/5 on Goodreads

This classic book explores the mental aspect of sports and how to enhance performance through self-awareness.

8. The Mindful Athlete: Secrets to Pure Performance by George Mumford

Recommended by Tamra (Tamie) Smith, US 5* event rider and 2023 Land Rover Kentucky 3-Day Event CCI5* Champion

‍Rating: 4.18/5 on Goodreads

George Mumford's book introduces mindfulness techniques to enhance focus, resilience, and overall well-being.

Understanding Equine Behavior and Psychology

9. The 5 Horse Types: Traditional Chinese Medicine for Training and Care for Every Horse by Ina Gosmeier

Recommended by Sinead Halpin Maynard, US 5* event rider, host of the In Stride podcast

‍Rating: 4.43/5 on Goodreads

Ina Gosmeier's book explores equine behavior and helps readers understand the unique personalities of horses.

10. Horse Brain, Human Brain by Janet Jones

Recommended by Sinead Halpin Maynard, US 5* event rider, host of the In Stride podcast

‍Rating: 4.56/5 on Goodreads

Janet Jones delves into the fascinating connection between horse and human brain functions, providing insights into their interaction.

Equestrian-Specific Books for Better Riding

11. Dressage in Harmony by Walter Zettl

Recommended by Reese Koffler Stanfield, Grand Prix dressage rider and host of the Dressage Radio Show podcast

‍Rating: 4.41/5 on Goodreads

Walter Zettl focuses on the art of dressage and the harmony between rider and horse.

12. Brain Training for Riders by Andrea Monserrat Waldo

Recommended by Reese Koffler Stanfield, Grand Prix dressage rider and host of the Dressage Radio Show podcast

‍Rating: 4.33/5 on Goodreads

Andrea Monserrat Waldo offers practical techniques to strengthen mental resilience and improve athletic performance.

Performance Improvement and Motivation

13. Golf is Not a Game of Perfect by Dr. Bob Rotella

Recommended by Kyle Carter, Canadian Olympic event rider

‍Rating: 4.20/5 on Goodreads

Dr. Bob Rotella offers valuable mental strategies for achieving peak performance in sports and life.

14. Elite Minds: Creating the Competitive Advantage by Stan Beecham

Recommended by Dan Kreitl, US 4* event rider

‍Rating: 4.16/5 on Goodreads

Stan Beecham's book uncovers the secrets to gaining a competitive edge in sports and beyond.

15. Mind Gym: An Athlete's Guide to Inner Excellence by Gary Mack

Recommended by Lainey Ashker, US 5* event rider and Grand Prix dressage rider

‍Rating: 4.09/5 on Goodreads

Gary Mack's book offers valuable mental exercises and strategies to unlock inner excellence, applicable to all athletes.

16. Can't Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds by David Goggins‍

Recommended by Sinead Halpin Maynard, US 5* event rider, host of the In Stride podcast

‍Rating: 4.53/5 on Goodreads

David Goggins' inspiring memoir encourages readers to push their limits, overcome adversity, and achieve greatness.

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Conclusion

Expanding your knowledge and improving your riding skills is a journey worth taking. These equestrian book recommendations cover a wide range of topics from horse behavior to personal growth, offer valuable insights and inspiration for riders of all levels. So, grab a book, get cozy, and embark on a journey of learning in the world of horses.

Happy reading and riding!