Equine Biomechanics & Saddle Fit Guide with Gillian from Horses Inside Out

Experience a deep dive into the fascinating world of equine anatomy and biomechanics! Join Jade from The Saddlebank as she visits Gillian Higgins of Horses Inside Out for an in-depth discussion on how proper saddle fit impacts your horse’s comfort, posture, and long-term health. Discover why the horse’s back isn’t just a single structure, how the ribs and spine work together, and why even small imbalances or incorrect tack can lead to big problems over time.

What You’ll Learn in This Video:
✅ The anatomy of the equine back, including ribs, spinous processes, and the role of fascia
✅ How an ill-fitting saddle can restrict movement, cause discomfort, and hinder muscle development
✅ Why your horse’s posture, cardiovascular fitness, and core strength are vital for saddle fit
✅ Common signs of saddle-related issues—such as stiffness, bucking, or uneven gait—and what to do about them
✅ Key tips on evaluating correct saddle placement, from measuring behind the scapula to staying clear of the last rib
✅ The importance of proper bridle fit and overall tack check for total horse welfare

👉 About Horses Inside Out and Gillian Higgins: Gillian Higgins is the founder of Horses Inside Out and internationally recognized for her innovative approach to teaching equine anatomy through painted horse demonstrations, books, and online courses. She combines expertise in art, anatomy, and riding to help owners, riders, and professionals alike understand how to keep horses happy, healthy, and performing at their best.

🐴 Visit Horses Inside Out: www.horsesinsideout.com
📅 Events: www.horsesinsideout.com/whats-on-list
🎓 Academy: www.horsesinsideout.com/academy
📚 Bookshop: www.horsesinsideout.com/shop

Gillian's YouTube Channel: @horsesinsideout

📌 Inside this video:
0:00 Intro
0:30 Meeting Gillian Higgins
0:49 Gillian’s Early Horse Experiences
1:53 The Birth of Horses Inside Out
4:12 Why Understanding Anatomy Matters
7:03 Painted Horse Demonstration, The Academy, & Colouring Books
10:32 Meet Freddie Fox
13:10 Equine Back & Rib Cage Explanation
19:09 Should we be riding horses if they're not fit enough?
16:26 The importance of proper Saddle Fitting & Flocking
20:48 Fascia, Hydration, & Muscle Atrophy
24:03 Scapula Movement, Tree Points, & How are Saddle Fits Affected?
28:16 Identifying T18 & Proper Saddle Placement
32:00 Checking for Pain & Evaluating Saddle Slippage
38:40 Head & Bridle Fit Considerations
43:17 Outro & Where to Learn More

If you enjoyed this exploration of horse biomechanics, be sure to subscribe for more saddle-fitting guides, horse care tutorials, and interviews with leading equestrian experts. Your horse’s comfort is our passion!

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