The aim of this study was to measure the load on the equine back at different gaits under different saddle types (English and side saddle) and to determine the influence of the asymmetrical side saddle upon the motion of the back.
13 horses of various breeds, age ranging from 7 to 25 years, saddled with their accustomed saddles and ridden with their accustomed rider were used for the measurements. The horses showed no sign of back pain when clinically examined. Quality of saddle fit was also determined.
Motion data were synchronously recorded with a kinematic measurement system and a saddle pressure sensor mat. Measurements were performed at walk, trot and canter.
Total force, the partial forces of all four quarters, the displacement of the center of pressure and the motion of the withers and the 4th lumbar vertebra were determined.
Total force and partial force of the left cranial quarter were significantly (p<0,01) smaller under the side saddle than under the English saddle. At walk, motion of the withers showed no significant difference between both saddle types. The 4th lumbar vertebra showed significantly larger vertical excursions with English saddle. At trot horizontal movement of the withers was restricted when ridden with the side saddle, at canter the transversal movement was restricted. In both trot and canter, no significant differences in motion of 4th lumbar vertebra was detectable.
These results demonstrate that the load under a side saddle leads to significant changes in load and motion patterns. Under the aspect of variation training, a combination of both riding styles can be recommended.
horse, back, side saddle, saddle mat, motion analysis