09/05/2026
A summary of the EdL
The training path of the Ecole de Légèreté leads to a versatile companion, whether in dressage, show jumping, working equitation, or leisure riding. The goal is a mobile, supple, and actively forward-moving horse with a swinging back, ready at any time to change between a phase in a higher position “on the bit” to neck extension “toward the hand.” In the higher position, the horse should neither go over nor behind the bit. In extension, it should confidently take its nose forward and stretch its entire topline without losing balance or rhythm. The EdL rejects any excesses in a particular direction. The horse should neither be squeezed between hands and legs and driven forward, nor lose its natural gaits due to excessive focus on short, vertical strides or an artificial feather trot at a too slow pace. Lightness of the forehand and mobility are fostered through specific exercises and fluid transitions, without becoming rigidly fixed on a particular posture.
In his quest to find a natural and horse-friendly training method free of coercive means, Philippe Karl analyzed a majority of the writings and working methods of the old riding Masters. Based on his extensive riding experience and intellectual sharpness, the now 79-year-old Frenchman selected the most effective methods and supplemented them with contemporary scientific findings.
The result of his studies is a riding philosophy centered on respect for the horse’s nature and essence. In 2004, he founded his own school, the Ecole de Légèreté (EdL), and began training riding instructors according to his concept. The key pillars of EdL are establishing a good communication that never uses contradictory aids, as well as balance and mental relaxation combined with many gymnastic exercises. The riders aids are first explained to the horse, ensuring they are always clearly understandable to our fourlegged partner.
In 2006, his third book, *Twisted Truth of Modern Dressage*, was published, in which Philippe Karl highlights the negative effects of sportoriented riding and offers a classical alternative whose logic no thinking rider can ignore. With this, he made a highly acclaimed exclamation mark in his tireless mission as an advocate for the welfare and health of riding horses.
From Sylvia Stoessel (and APPEL)
Picture of the riding hall where P. Karl teaches the Swiss group of advanced EdL teachers. Taken in 2023 when I had the awesome opportunity to watch for a week.
