The Crucial Connection Between Saddle Fit and Horse Posture

Hi Athletes!

As horse lovers and riders, it is our responsibility to ensure their comfort, soundness, and overall happiness. Let's explore why saddle fit and your horse’s posture is crucial and how it can profoundly impact our equine companions.

Saddle Fit: The Key to Equine Comfort. A well-fitting saddle is the cornerstone of a happy and healthy horse. Just like us, horses come in all shapes and sizes, and each one deserves a saddle that accommodates their unique physique. An ill-fitting saddle can cause a myriad of problems, including discomfort, pain, and even long-term physical issues. Some common signs of an improper saddle fit include:

1.      Uneven pressure points: If the saddle is too narrow or wide, it can create pressure points that cause soreness and muscle tension.

2.      Restricted shoulder movement: An incorrectly fitted saddle can limit the range of motion in your horse's shoulders, hindering their ability to move freely and engage properly.

3.      Back pain: Poor saddle fit can lead to back pain, resulting in stiffness, resistance, and a compromised performance.

Just as a solid foundation is essential for building a sturdy structure, correct horse posture forms the groundwork for optimal performance. When a horse's posture is compromised due to an ill-fitting saddle, it affects their balance, flexibility, and ability to engage their hindquarters effectively. Proper posture:

1.      Enables efficient movement: A well-balanced horse with correct posture can move with greater efficiency, allowing for smoother transitions and improved collection.

2.      Enhances athleticism: Correct posture facilitates a horse's natural athleticism and range of motion, enabling them to perform at their best across various disciplines, be it dressage, jumping, or trail riding.

3.      Ensures long-term soundness: By promoting an aligned spine and distributing the rider's weight evenly, proper posture reduces the risk of strain, overuse injuries, and long-term musculoskeletal issues.

As equestrians, we have a responsibility to prioritize our horse's well-being above all else. Here are a few key steps you can take to ensure the best possible saddle fit and posture for your equine partner:

1.      Consult with an expert: Seek the advice of a professional saddle fitter or a knowledgeable equine bodyworker who can assess your horse's conformation and posture and recommend an appropriate saddle style and fit. I have recently completed the course “Saddle Assessment for Bodyworkers” and am offering saddle assessment as a new service. A consultation involves assessing the horse’s posture to ensure that it is in an appropriate position to be able to carry a saddle, assessing the saddle itself for safety and symmetry, and a static and dynamic assessment of how the saddle is fitting. Pair this with a bodywork session for optimum results! Email me at aplusequinemassage@gmail.com or visit my website to fill out an intake form and I will get back to you as soon as possible. If I am unable to travel to your area, I can put you in touch with a colleague that can help you out.

2.      Regular evaluations: Over time, a horse's shape may change due to age, training, or fitness levels. Schedule regular saddle fit evaluations to ensure that your horse's saddle continues to accommodate their needs.

3.      Observe your horse's body language: Pay attention to your horse's behavior and cues while tacking up and riding. Signs of discomfort or resistance, such as pinning ears, tail swishing, or hollowing the back, may indicate an issue with saddle fit or posture.

4.      Professional guidance: Consider working with a qualified trainer or instructor who can help you develop an understanding of correct equine posture and guide you in exercises that promote strength, flexibility, and balance.

In addition to ensuring that horse is well muscled and the posture is correct, take some time to consider your own balance and posture. It can have quite the profound effect on the forces distributed through your saddle to your horse. If you need some help with that, Coach Sarah has a number of offerings designed to fit your needs and budget.

Remember, a comfortable and well-aligned horse is a happy and willing partner, ready to excel and share unforgettable moments with you in the saddle.

Cheers!

-Ashley