About Me
I have ridden and owned horses all of my life. My passion for saddles started in the early 2000s when training as a practitioner in Equine Touch, a non-diagnostic, non-invasive holistic soft tissue address. Training covered saddle fit and hoof balance in the context of dynamic function and it became clear that ALL aspects of the body and mind need to be balanced and functioning correctly for our horses to be able to perform to their optimum and comfortably carry the weight of a rider without causing damage to their bodies (and ours) over time. This includes the functioning of the digestive system, teeth and feet, as well as the way we fit equipment such as saddles, bridles and bits and the physical and mental considerations in the way we handle, train and ride the horse.
I started my saddle fitting journey a number of years ago, undertaking extensive saddle fitting training with Lavinia Mitchell before becoming a professional saddle fitter. I have continued with my professional training and hold the International Academy of Saddle Fitters (IASF) Lantra accredited Stage 3 Professional Saddle Fitting Award and the Society of Master Saddlers (SMS) City & Guilds qualification in Saddle Flocking and Adjustment. I have undertaken some additional training with the SMS and follow the SMS Professional Code of Conduct. I am also a Director of Connect Equine Ltd, a company specialising in the design and development of biomechanically sympathetic saddles and accessories for both horse and rider.
I believe as equine professionals, all of us should be on a continuous learning journey. Alongside saddle fitting, I have spent several years studying human and equine biomechanics with Peggy Cummings and Connected Riding and have completed levels 101 and 102 of the practitioner training programme. At the core of Connected Riding is understanding the principles of correct mechanical movement for both horse and rider, minimising bracing patterns by establishing a ‘neutral’ posture and using non-habitual movement patterns in both to create freedom and ease of movement. Understanding equine anatomy is also critical. I have participated in four full equine dissections, two of which have been standing dissections where we were able to assess the impact of saddle fit and other equipment on correct mechanical movement.
No horse or rider is symmetrical, however, with the correct support and training, every physical body has the potential to change, improve, become stronger, more symmetrical and healthier for the long-term. I am passionate about the role saddles can play in this. I believe they provide infinite possibilities to create an amazing connection between horse and rider, that enables both to find their own neutral posture, with comfort and freedom of movement. For this reason I take a 'whole horse and rider' approach to saddle fitting and bring many aspects of my body work and biomechanics training to my saddle fittings. I work alongside vets, physiotherapists and equine/human bodyworkers. I have some clients I support as part of a rehabilitation plan, whilst others may require new saddles, routine adjustments, saddle flocking and regular checks.
