CLASSICAL EQUITATION
Remedial Saddle Fitter, Classical Riding Instructor & Equine Bodyworker (Masterson Method®)
"The three-skills approach to make life better for horses & riders"
HELLO!
I feel I should introduce myself as the “3-skills saddle fitter.”
I became a qualified Classical riding instructor but then realised how many stiff, damaged horses I was being asked to train. So I became a Masterson Method Equine Bodywork Practitioner. But then I realised how many horses were being damaged by their saddle-fit. Hence I have now qualified and insured as a Remedial Saddle Fitter (with continuing professional development).
My intention is NOT to sell you a saddle! I work with some brands but do not have to sell you a saddle to eat at the end of the week!
Currently owned saddles will be assessed for suitability for both horse and rider and for their condition. I hope I will be able to help fit your current saddle (none of us have spare cash nowadays!)
Do you feel your horse is not moving/behaving as well as expected? Is there muscle loss at the withers or a lack of top line? Is this a saddle issue; a physical problem in either your horse’s or your body or perhaps a training issue? Qualified in all three skills I can help you discover where problems arise and guide you on a route to resolve them.
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QUALIFICATIONS & TRAINING
British Horse Society AI Instructor
Classical training with student of Nuno Oliveira
Masterson Method Qualified Equine Bodyworker
Caroline Lynsay 2year Horse, Saddle Rider Lantra course
1st Horse 2 year theory & practical saddle fitters Lantra course
SMS/City & Guilds Saddle Flocking course
Thirza Hendriks 1 year Movement & Biomechanics course
Sue Dyson lameness course
Ongoing saddle repair training with Fellow of Master Saddlers
Customer testimonials
" Over the moon with the service we've received from Catherine! The most in depth saddle fitting experience I've ever had - by a million miles.
I asked Catherine to come to the rescue as I had concerns that my saddle was too narrow, and possibly too long. Catherine promptly booked us in following a phone call to ensure she brought the right saddles along to try that fitted our needs (my budget!) and would hopefully address my concerns.
On arrival Catherine went through a comprehensive checklist that covered me as well as my horse, all whilst taking time to explain each step in detail so that I was left feeling fully confident in the process.
We tried a range of saddles and settled on a reasonably priced second hand saddle that is in lovely condition." Existing saddle a medium/wide - now a 2xwide! But much more than this, Catherine reinstalled confidence in me as a horse owner & rider with her gentle tips and tricks, and I now feel empowered to continue our journey with knowledge that my horse is much more comfortable.
As part of the fitting, I got to experience a brief lesson and what can I say. Riding instructors like Catherine are few and far between these days.
"Catherine came out to look at Skye’s back and saddle as she had not been working well for a couple of weeks.
Whilst there she gave Skye a treatment and adjusted her saddle to ensure it was a good fit for her.
Absolutely incredible service and attention to detail and knowledge. It makes such a difference to have a holistic approach."
"Catherine came to see me & my (new) horse after I’d already had one saddle fitter advise me to get a 16” medium saddle for my chunky 16hh Thoroughbred. His assessment didn’t feel right & I'm so glad I asked Catherine to help. Catherine explained every step of the process and offered valuable advice to help improve my horse’s going. She also provided a very reasonable lightweight adjustable saddle (17.5” Wide!). My horse and I are a new combination & as well as getting to know him I am also struggling with confidence after a nasty accident last year. Thanks to Catherine I have the confidence that I’m moving in the right direction & I am doing the very best for my horse. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Catherine"