In Modern Riding Techniques Selma Brandl explores the psychology of the horse as a basis for its schooling and also sets valuable guidelines for the initial and later training for the rider.

The section on school movements and her detailed exposition of the rider's aids is exemplary, but even more notable is the author's  supporting theme of mental and physical relaxation leading to harmony between horse and rider.  It adds a further dimension to the riding disciplines and sets this book apart from its contemporaries.

Also included are chapters on jumping training, eventing and hunting, as well as a particularly perceptive study of the art of Western horsemanship, in which the author discusses the relationship between the Californian system and the classical European school.