Improving Bridle Fit: from an Evidence Based and Practical Perspective with Dr. Russell MacKechnie-Guire and Diana Fisher

Generally, attention is given to saddle fit however, the effect that bridle fit and design can have on the horse in terms of welfare, comfort and locomotor performance should not be underestimated. This 3-hour online course will discuss bridle fit from an evidence based perspective, discussing bridle fit in relation to anatomy, as well as presenting scietific studies which have quantified the effect that bridle fit and design can have on the horse’s locomotor apparatus. In addition, Diana Fisher, will discuss bridle fit from a practical point of view, offering practical advice on how to firstly determine correct bridle fit and then offering practical modifications to improve bridle fit.

For all attendees, CPD certificates available as well as a “view only” recording of the webinar with a 14 day access pass. There will also be a Q and A session with ample opportunity to post questions via our interactive Q&A panel.

Dr. Russell MacKechnie-Guire

Russell MacKechnie-Guire graduated from Warwickshire College in 2006 with a BSc (Hons) in Equine and Human Sports Science and now holds a PhD in Equine Biomechanics, graduating from the Royal Veterinary College in 2019. Russell’s thesis was titled ‘The Relationship between Saddle and Rider Kinematics, Equine Locomotion, and Thoracolumbar Pressures in Sports Horses’. Russell is based at Centaur Biomechanics, a company which he founded in 2006. He has extensively researched the effect that tack (saddle, bridle and girth) has on equine health and performance. Russell’s current area of research is horse-saddle-rider interaction, spinal kinematics in horses when ridden over ground and the effect that rider asymmetry has on equine back movement. In addition, Russell collaborates with researchers from around the world on various research projects associated with equine health and performance. He regularly presents his work at international meetings throughout the world and is a consultant for the British Equestrian Federations World Class, Team GBR programme. Russell is a member of the Team GBR’s Scientific Advisory Group, Society of Master Saddlers Scientific Advisory Group and chairs the horse+rider subgroup, part of the International Task force on Laterality in Sports Horses.

Diana Fisher, SMS RQSF

Diana Fisher is a SMS Qualified Master Saddle Fitter, SMS Qualified Bridle Fitter, UKCC, British Dressage Accredited Coach. Consultant saddle and Bridle fitter for the British Equestrian World Class Program. Diana is an accompalised horse womane, having competed up to PSG level in dressage. Diana lectures and assess for the SMS qualified bridle and saddle fitting courses. Diana is also involved in many equestrian research projects and co-author on a several papers.