Saddle Fit Assessment

How sure can you be that your saddle fits your horse correctly? The majority of horses that I see as a bodyworker have a fit issue of some degree. This leads not only to pain in the back, but causes pain and postural issues throughout the horse’s whole body. As a rider, you will notice impaired performance and possibly some difficulties with your own riding. Good saddle fit is kinder for the horse, but it will also improve your comfort and performance too.

Saddle fit needs to be checked regularly. Horses’ withers change dramatically as they mature (up to the age of 6 years), while their weight fluctuates and shape changes throughout the year and with different levels of work. Even if your saddle was a good fit when you bought it, there is a good chance that it may no longer be correct. During a saddle fit assessment, I will check your saddle on and off the horse, as well as when you are riding the horse. This will enable you to make clear decisions about either correcting problems or changing your saddle.

Please note that poor saddle fit often leads to insidious but deeply seated pain that can last for a long time after the offending saddle has been changed. I have found, and successfully addressed, middle back and lumbar pain in horses that have not even been ridden for 2 to 3 years. Rest is helpful but, in itself, not enough!