Saddle Fitting
Whether for dressage or for jumping, the saddle should conform to the basic requirements;
- Comfort for the horse.
- Comfort for the rider.
- The shape of the saddle should enable the rider to maintain a symmetrically balanced position, aligned with the centre of the horses movement.
- The horses centre of balance moves according to the dynamic action of the gait. The saddle should allow the horse to move dynamically without stress or strain, and also enable the rider to maintain the correct position.
- An improperly balanced saddle will affect the riders balance. As a result the rider sits awkwardly resulting in poor posture, possibly leading to back pain. Incorrectly stuffed saddles also impede any seat or leg aids. This in turn affects the horse, which bears the ever shifting weight of an unbalanced rider.