Analysis & adaption
In order to get this gentle and individually adapted training of the horse to work, a special attention should be paid to the saddle, the link between both.
Through my love for horses and training them, I have learned to take a closer look at all the aspects and conditions a horse needs to work in a relaxed manner. While doing that, I became aware that the saddle has an extremely important role for both. About 5 years ago, while searching for a suitable saddle, I met my future trainer.
She showed me that there are some saddles that fit me and my horse very well, if they are fitted correctly. And from that moment on my interest was born.
Today I am lucky to have been trained by one of the best in her field: Certified saddle and horse ergonomist (according to Saddlefit4life) Valerie Ponocny of Ergo Saddlefit!
With her offer to train me, there was no hesitation, and the journey together began. Now the time has come to use my knowledge for my customers.
Saddle analysis and fitting briefly explained!
Just as Important, that the saddle fits the horse, is to choose the saddle for the customer equally suitable. Before a saddle will be fitted to the horse, I will measure both. From this data, you can already see which model and seat size will fit best and in which position the knee pads and stirrup bars should be placed.
After we have determined together what kind of saddle fits you, I will measure your horse. It is important that the horse stands with both legs parallel on a firm and straight surface. In addition to measuring the shoulder angle, a three-dimensional measurement of the horse's back will also be taken. These measurements provide information on whether your horse is right- or lefthanded or straight. The marking in the enclosed picture shows us the area in which the saddle should lie. The saddle must stay behind the shoulder even when moving and must not slide forward onto the trapezius muscle under any circumstances. The panel channel must be wide enough not to put pressure on the spine and its ligaments. The saddle must also in no case rest behind the last rib, which is in the kidney area.
Based on these collected data and its analysis we now know if and how the saddle fits or if we have to change the saddle. It is important to us that we adjust the saddle as directly as possible on the spot. We can not only adjust the saddle with wool, but also change the tree angle and width.
During the dynamic assessment after the adjustment, we pay special attention to the tail, eyes, and ears of your horse. The tail needs to be relaxed and sway easily with the rhythm of the movement. Eyes and ears have to be relaxed. The best would be if your horse moves freely in all 3 paces and show fluid transitions. You should sit on your horse in the correct position without effort, so you can give optimal assistance. You may now realize for yourself how important it is, that you and your horse are equipped with a saddle that grows steadily with you.