The Role of Equestrian Professionals in Saddle Fit for Horses and Riders in the United Kingdom.

This study investigates the roles of different equestrian professionals in the United Kingdom, namely saddle fitters, therapists, and coaches, in making sure that saddles are properly fitted for horses and riders. The researchers carried out a survey with 377 responses to understand the practices surrounding saddle fitting.

Methodology

• The researchers created an online survey for participants to complete. The total responses amounted to 483, from which the 377 UK-based responses were selected for further analysis.
• The survey was divided into three key sections: participant demographics, saddle fit for the horse, and saddle fit for the rider.
• The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, Kruskal-Wallis tests, and both univariable and multivariable analyses.
• An inductive approach was used to draw out themes from the open-ended questions in the survey.

Participants

• Among the 377 UK respondents, there were 184 saddle fitters, 77 therapists, and 116 coaches.

Results and Findings

• Saddle fitters and therapists were more likely to ask their clients about the last time their saddle was fitted compared to coaches.
• Saddle fitting was assessed both statically and dynamically by saddle fitters, while therapists’ methods of assessment varied depending on the assessment scenarios.
• Saddle fitters were more likely to encounter an unbalanced saddle compared to therapists and made more adjustments to the saddles than therapists and coaches.

Conclusion

• The findings from the study show opportunities for better collaboration among the different professionals in the multi-disciplinary team (MDT). This collaboration could lead to improved saddle fitting practices, which would benefit both the horse owners and the horses themselves.