
Ruth Giffels
RG“German dressage trainer and author specializing in Haute École and side-saddle riding.”
Main Discipline
Dressage
The Philosophy
Ruth Giffels is a renowned German classical dressage trainer, clinician, author, and performer specializing in classical and baroque riding, Haute École (High School), and side-saddle riding. Based at Gut Schönburg in Oberwesel, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, she has taught riders throughout Germany and Switzerland for decades and is widely respected within the classical dressage community.
Specialties
Ruth specializes in:
* Classical dressage
* Classical Baroque riding
* Haute École (High School)
* Side-saddle riding (Damensattel)
* Rider position and balance
* Horse development from foundation through advanced collection
* Clinics and educational seminars
* Baroque riding demonstrations and exhibitions.
Professional Background
Ruth Giffels is considered one of Germany's leading classical riding instructors. She has devoted her career to preserving and teaching the principles of classical equitation and regularly conducts clinics in Germany and Switzerland.
She trained under several influential classical masters, including:
* Egon von Neindorff
* Kurt Albrecht
* Richard Hinrichs
She is also known for presenting educational demonstrations and publishing books and articles on classical riding. Numerous instructors across Europe list long-term education with Ruth Giffels as an important part of their professional development.
Training Philosophy
Her teaching emphasizes:
* Riding according to classical principles.
* Developing a correct, independent rider seat.
* Gymnastic training that promotes the horse's long-term soundness.
* Harmony, balance, and lightness over force.
* Progressive education from basic work to advanced movements, always respecting the horse's physical and mental development.
Services
She offers:
* Classical dressage instruction
* Horse training (Beritt)
* Individual and group clinics
* Side-saddle training
* Classical riding demonstrations
* Educational seminars
* Publications on riding and horsemanship.
Publications
Ruth has authored books and educational materials on classical riding, with particular emphasis on:
* Classical dressage
* Rider position
* Canter work
* Horse biomechanics
* Classical training methods.