Dr Russell MacKechnie-Guire is the founder of Centaur Biomechanics and one of the leading researchers in horse and rider biomechanics.

In this episode, Russell shares his journey into horses and equine research before we explore how horses move, the factors that can influence their balance and symmetry, and what riders and trainers can learn from the science of equine biomechanics.

We discuss:

• How to observe and assess a horse’s posture and movement
• The relationship between laterality, asymmetry and discomfort
• Why taking time to notice small changes in our horses matters
• Using targeted exercise and pole work to improve movement
• How the rider’s balance, position and movement affect the horse
• Rising trot, diagonals and pressure through the saddle
• The relationship between the horse, saddle and rider
• What to look for when choosing a saddle fitter
• Turning scientific research into useful, practical information for horse owners

Find out more about Russell and his work:

• Centaur Biomechanics website
• Centaur Biomechanics on Facebook
• Centaur Biomechanics on Instagram

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Dr David Marlin’s Animalweb
• Veterinary Compendium
• Society of Master Saddlers

In this episode of the Horsemanship: in Practice podcast, I’m joined by Holly Barber, a horse trainer, riding instructor and one of Britain’s leading competitors in working equitation.

Holly has represented Great Britain 13 times and, riding her Lusitano Exparta D’Atela, finished sixth in the world at the 2018 Working Equitation World Championships. She is also an Advanced National Champion, a Level 4 trainer and a national judge with the Association for British Working Equitation.

We talk about what working equitation involves, Holly’s experiences, and how she thinks about training horses, and teaching riders.

You can find Holly and follow her work here:

Pine Lodge School of Classical Equitation on Facebook

Holly Barber on Instagram

You can also follow Steelehorse, Holly and Freddy Steele’s training and performance partnership:

Steelehorse on Facebook

Steelehorse on Instagram

Steelehorse website

If you’re interested in trying working equitation or finding out more about the sport, visit:

The Association for British Working Equitation

A deep dive into the world of positive reinforcement with accredited behaviourist and award winning trainer, Millie Martin