Quantification of the Effect of Saddle Fitting on Rider–Horse Biomechanics Using Inertial Measurement Units
Authors: B. Becard, M. Sapone, P. Martin, S. Hanne-Poujade, Alexa Babu, Camille Hébert, P. Joly, W. Bertucci, N. Houel
Journal: Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
Summary
# Editorial Summary Proper saddle fitting remains largely assessed through subjective static evaluation, yet dynamic biomechanical changes during ridden work directly impact both equine locomotion and rider stability. Becard and colleagues employed seven inertial measurement units (IMUs) positioned on eight rider–horse pairs to objectively quantify how minor saddle modifications—specifically variations in seat depth, flap width, and front panel thickness—altered forelimb and hindlimb range of motion, stride duration, pelvic kinematics, and the temporal synchronisation between horse and rider. Even subtle saddle adjustments produced measurable effects on the horse's active range of motion and stride characteristics, whilst also shifting the rider's pelvic motion patterns and the timing relationship between equine and human movement. These findings suggest that IMU technology offers a reproducible, objective alternative to conventional fitting methods, potentially enabling farriers, physiotherapists, and saddle fitters to quantify the functional impact of their adjustments in real-world conditions and optimise saddle selection based on kinetic rather than purely anatomical criteria.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Saddle fitting is not a static adjustment—even minor changes in seat depth, flap width, or front panel thickness measurably affect how horse and rider move together; use objective feedback (IMU data or similar tools) to validate fit rather than relying on visual assessment alone
- •Poor saddle fit can restrict your horse's limb movement and alter stride mechanics, potentially affecting performance and predisposing to injury; prioritize fitting adjustments that maintain natural range of motion
- •Achieving rider-horse synchronization matters: mismatched saddle fit creates temporal desynchronization between rider and horse movement, which may compromise balance, communication, and comfort for both
Key Findings
- •Small saddle modifications (seat depth, flap width, front panel thickness) significantly altered both horse and rider biomechanics in all tested pairs
- •Specific saddle configurations reduced forelimb and hindlimb active range of motion, lengthened stride duration, and modified rider pelvic motion
- •Temporal offset between horse and rider movement patterns varied systematically with saddle configuration changes
- •Inertial measurement units provided objective, reproducible quantification of saddle fit effects on locomotion dynamics