Equine Health & Fitness

20/04/2025

Full length feature film “Horses and the Science of Harmony” examines the nature of harmony between horse and rider through the eyes of 3-day event rider Bubby Upton and through the lens of cutting-edge science. Horses and the Science of Harmony tells the emotional story of Bubby Upton, a rising...

09/04/2025

Long toes only affect the navicular right?

The leg has a series of joints. The metacarpo-phalangeal joint (fetlock), the proximal interphalangeal joint and distal interphalangeal joint (Pastern and coffin). Each one of these joints is a centre of rotation and because of how the digit is not underneath the limb, but in front off, each of these joints is profoundly affected by the distance from its centre of rotation to the point at which the ground acts through the hoof. In the form of the turning force (moment).
An increased turning force must be counteracted by whatever keeps those joints from descending under the load, the tendons AND ligaments.

Hence why long toes affect ALL of the soft tissue structures on the back of the leg. Both tendons and the suspensory!

If you would like this information clarified, explained in simpler terms and would like an introductory lesson in equine digit biomechanics then join myself and The study of the equine hoof on the 3rd Oct at 7pm BST where I will be doing just that.

https://equineeducationhub.thinkific.com/courses/digit-biomechanics-101

31/03/2025

31/03/2025

Jim Wofford said, "Good riders sit." The two left photos, a HJer and an eventer, are riding in the same position that some call a 2-point. The two right photos are MacLain Ward top and Bruce Davidson below. The obvious difference is that the riders on the left ride up out of the saddle with straighter knees and they depend on the horse's neck for their balance. This makes these riders "top heavy" and their movements are more apt to interfere with their horse's balance.

Ward and Davidson ride closer to the saddle, lowering the center of gravity of the horse and rider pair, thus creating greater stability. Yes, I know Davidson is in a jump, but I picked this image to make the point that he demonstrates a light or half seat over a jump, which requires great strength in the lower body that the two left riders seem to lack. Davidson rode in a light or half seat, not perched like the riders on the left, except when he needed to sit deeply for increased engagement.

The bottom image by Susan Harris shows the difference between the current "2-point position" and the original 2-point. The left 2-point is actually a 3-point position because it has the two points of balance in the rider's feet, plus a 3rd point of balance with the hands on the neck. The original 2-point is shown on the right with only the two points of balance in the feet.

The authentic 2-point is a dynamic or moving balance independent of the horse's balance and motion. An independent balanced seat is safer because if the horse stumbles, the rider can maintain their balance and not automatically be affected by a horse's sudden imbalance.

The new "2-point", that is actually a 3-point, is a static balance tied to the horse's balance. This position makes the rider a passenger dependent on the horse's balance. In this static dependent balance, if the horse stumbles the rider, riders lacking their own independent balance can more easily be pitched forward even to the point of being launched forward onto the ground.

The 3-point is rewarded by judges even though it is a static unbalanced position forward of the horse's center of balance and thus dangerous if the horse loses their balance. This is one of the primary examples of how several disciplines have invented their own isolated discipline "horsemanships" with elements that are impractical, ineffective and sometimes dangerous. The worst part is that these discipline idiosyncrasies make the horses' job more difficult.

I have a video on my YouTube channel that discusses this in greater detail www.youtube.com/watch?v=1IEpQmApva0&t=28s

19/03/2025

08/03/2025

Absolutely love Equitopia Center webinars! So much information for those willing to listen and learn and change their horses life !

An Essenential Component to Healthy, Ethical Riding: In Front of the Vertical

Riding your horse in front of the vertical is not just about aesthetics—it’s essential for healthy posture, correct muscle development, and long-term soundness.

Our lead educators, including Dr. Karin Leibbrandt, a leading expert in equine biomechanics, positioning the horse behind the vertical can cause physical strain, imbalance, and even long-term damage to joints, tendons, and the topline.

When a horse is correctly ridden in front of the vertical, with their core engaged, their back lifted, their hindquarters power movement without tension.

This supports physical, mental, and emotional well-being, allowing the horse to move naturally and comfortably while enhancing performance.

Want to learn how to train your horse with compassion and evidence-based methods that prioritize their health?

We are delighted to host Dr. Karin Leibbrandt’s course which allows those seeking information they can rely on to discover how to develop a strong, supple, and happy equine athlete.

Take advantage of our discounted price today and gain lifetime access to this valuable information to guide you on your journey:

https://shop.equitopiacenter.com/product/compassionate-training-for-todays-sport-horse/

02/03/2025

That is so true!!!

Before we dispose of horses because of an x-ray, perhaps we need to look at how we are teaching this generation of riders, and why a condition like this is far more problematic now than ever. The science so far indicates that the condition is not one that horses are usually born with, but will develop if they have certain predispositions and poor training/rider technique: https://bit.ly/4i3Pyna

26/01/2025

This is why the feet have to be balanced!

25/01/2025

Saddle Fitting: It’s More Than Just Tree Width!

When it comes to saddle fitting, many riders still focus solely on the tree width (Narrow, Medium, Wide, etc.), but proper saddle fitting goes far beyond that. A well-fitted saddle is essential for your horse’s comfort, performance, and overall health—and here’s why:

1️⃣ Shoulder Freedom: The saddle must allow your horse’s shoulders to move freely, especially during transitions and lateral work. A poorly fitted saddle can restrict motion, leading to discomfort and even long-term damage.

2️⃣ Spinal Clearance: Adequate clearance along the spine ensures there’s no pressure on the withers or spinal processes. This is key to preventing soreness and uneven muscle development.

3️⃣ Weight Distribution: A properly fitted saddle evenly distributes the rider’s weight across the horse’s back. Pinching or bridging can cause pressure points and make your horse resistant or hollow-backed.

4️⃣ Panel Shape: The shape and angle of the panels must match your horse’s topline. Horses with flat backs need different panels than those with a more curved profile.

5️⃣ Dynamic Fit: Saddle fitting isn’t static! A horse’s back changes with age, fitness, and training. Regular checks ensure your saddle fits as your horse’s shape evolves.

So, when assessing your saddle, remember: width is just one piece of the puzzle. Partner with a professional saddle fitter who can evaluate the full picture and keep your horse happy, healthy, and performing at their best.

✨ A comfortable horse is a willing partner—don’t settle for less!

13/12/2024

13/11/2024

Made just for EQ, this educational video takes you on a journey from rider mechanics to saddle mechanics, and in it, you will come to understand pressure dis...

01/11/2024

Head and neck position