Ever Wondered the Effects a Saddle Has on a Horse's Back?

From the Palos Verdes Peninsula Horsemen’s Association:

Equine biomechanist and bodyworker Susie Huber-Lytal, MS is coming to speak to us about the effects of saddles on our horses’ backs, particularly poorly fitting saddles.

Using actual horses, their owners and various saddle and pad configurations, Susie will help us understand what happens when we place saddles on their backs that interfere with normal movement.

In addition, there will be saddle fit assessments done at the talk so we can see how a better outcome for both horse and rider is accomplished. Both English and Western saddles will be discussed and used for demonstrations.

• 7 p.m. Oct. 16, Empty Saddle Club, 39 Empty Saddle Road, Rolling Hills Estates.

A horse’s back shape changes with age, condition, and according to tack used. The changes in an equine back will be discussed as well as conformational considerations, saddle construction, and practical application of techniques to optimize saddle fit.

Physical attributes considered will begin at the feet, and take into account limb construction, breed specifics, and any apparent or known pathology. Balancing a saddle to a particular horse’s back can greatly increase the horse’s comfort and increase performance quality for both horse and rider. This can translate into great gains in the areas of performance longevity and biomechanical comfort.

Susie’s background includes 35 years of horse ownership, 20 years of equine bodywork experience, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biomechanics and physiology as well as biology and equine biomechanics respectively, extensive riding experience, and a passion for helping horses.

By using actual horses and riders, it is possible to see how rider position is influenced by saddle balance and fit. In turn, the horses show us how the saddle fit affects their way of going as well as saddle placement. There will be a variety of conformation styles discussed and used for demonstrations, but if you want your horse considered for a saddle fit assessment, call Susie at (310) 488-4389.

PHOTO Patch file photo.

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