Principles of Correct Saddle Fit

Principles of Correct Saddle Fit with Dr Russell MacKechnie-Guire and Mark Fisher

Location: Centaur Biomechanic Training and Research, Dunstaffanage House, Moreton Morrell, Warwickshire, CV35 9BD

Time: 09:30 – 17:00 HRS BST

The saddle serves as the vital connection between horse and rider, and must be balanced to enable correct rider positioning and the application of subtle weight aids. A properly fitted saddle is essential—not only to prevent discomfort or injury to the horse’s back, but also to ensure it does not interfere with movement or communication. But what exactly defines a correct saddle fit?

This course offers a comprehensive blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical sessions, exploring the various aspects of saddle fitting. The aim is to equip participants with valuable, applicable insights—whether they are horse owners, coaches, therapists, saddle fitters, or other equine professionals.

Theory:

• Static and dynamic saddle fitting principles from an anatomical and biomechanical perspective.
• Objective methods to support saddle fitting

Practical’s:

• Rider-saddle fit
• Does my saddle fit? What to look for.
• Saddle pressures – how are they influenced by rider weight, skill and gait?
• Evaluation and management of horses with saddle slip

Cost

£220 incl VAT and booking fees

Spaces are limited to allow for a more hands on and interactive experience.

Notes:

CPD certificates available

Refreshments are provided; however, lunch is not included. The nearest shops are 10-minutes from Dunstaffanage House. It is advised to bring your own lunch.

The practical session will involve being in an arena with a horse and rider, please ensure that you wear appropriate footwear and clothing for standing in an arena.

Suggested pre or post reading and viewing

• Read: Essential Facts of Equine Physical Therapy, Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine chapter 14, Dr Russell MacKechnie-Guire and Professor Hilary Clayton
• Evidence based saddle fitting webinar with Dr Russell MacKechnie-Guire and Mark Fisher
• Saddle slip webinar with Dr Russell MacKechnie-Guire and Mark Fisher
• Rider-saddle fit webinar with Dr Russell MacKechnie-Guire

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.

Mark Fisher, SMS RQSF

Mark Fisher left the King’s Troop RHA as the Master Saddler in 2004, after 22 years service. In the army, he competed in eventing where he reached intermediate level and in team chasing up to open level. He has also been involved in show jumping and hunts on a regular basis. Mark is a registered, qualified saddle fitter and regularly lectures and assesses for the Society of Master Saddlers. Mark was fortunate enough to be employed as the official Master Saddler of the London 2012 Olympic games. He also works in conjunction with the British Equestrian Federation on the World Class Programme, operating the Pliance saddle pressure system, which is owned by the British Equestrian Federation. He is also employed as an overseas trainer for the World Horse Welfare, working with working horses in developing countries.Mark is also co-author on multiple scientific saddle based research papers.