string. In theory one, where the saddle sits on the ligaments, involuntary
contractions (ex. cramping) impede correct co-ordination
of muscle contractions and thus full range of motion is not possible.
In contrast, theory two allows for both stretching and contraction of
the muscle (full range of motion). The most efficient way to train is to
maximize both flexion (contraction) and extension (stretching), and
in order to achieve this, full range of motion is required. By reducing
the pressure on the shoulder your horse will be able to lift the base of
his neck and become supple through the poll. With theory number
two, by allowing the horse to fully engage his muscles and lifting his
rib cage, he will become more uphill and the balance of the saddle
will need to be readdressed many times throughout his career due
to his positive changes in his conformation.
In theory number one, because the saddle is mainly sitting on
the spine, with limited contact on the back muscle, the horse will
continue going but his body will take a toll. He will continue developing
incorrect muscles and deformities will become more visible.
Eventually, the atrophy in the back muscles and compression of
the spine will lead to permanent damage. With theory number two,
the increased range of motion will cause temporary soreness due
to greater lactic acid build up (just like we have after using muscles
during a new workout) which is nature’s way of recovering muscle
fibre, but the result in greater muscle formation and increased circulation.
During acute soreness, keeping pressure off the muscle would
appear to be logical, however, somewhere the saddle needs to be
supported.
If the horse has been in ill-fitting saddles in the past that have caused
some back pain (as in theory one), don’t be discouraged if your
horse shows signs of muscle soreness after switching to a saddle
fitted according to theory two, as this is good muscle soreness (as
mentioned above). You can temporarily help your horse by having
the back of the saddle a bit looser (by loosening the V webbing
back clip for instance). Yes, this will make the saddle move more in
the back (up and down, not onto the spine!), and onlookers may
misinterpret this as bouncing or an ill-fitting saddle. However, you will
know if you choose to go with the theory number two, that this is part
of the process to help your horse. It will help him heal, get stronger,
and develop correctly.
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