Why do they do it?

A couple of years ago we happened to be in Paris for the Marathon and we went to see Versailles. On the way in, I noticed Louis XIV's modest little stable block was now the home of the Académie Equestre de Versailles. It wasn't open to the public that time of year but we had a wander round the back and saw a horse being worked. Unfortunately, this is what we saw......

So when I had the chance to go back to Versailles last week, I went to look at the Académie again. They now have a sand school in front of the building in full view of passersby. Again, a couple of horses were being worked, and the pictures speak for themselves.....

So let's just say I won't be paying to go and see any of their shows anytime soon. If I'd had more time I'd have gone and asked them why they felt the need to ride the horses like that. Maybe I'll write to them and ask.....