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Saddle position on horse
Gaston Mercier is a pioneer for long riding in France. His knowledge of riding competition (French endurance champion, Double European endurance champion) allows him to state inadequacy between horse riding needs and horse equipments (saddles, saddle-pads).
To maximize effortless for the horse and a better feeling for the rider, Gaston Mercier propose 3 fundamental changes :
1 - A position further back of the forse (for lifhtness in front) and easy vertical balance "above the rider's legs" for a competitive and relaxed seat.
2 - A position "very close to the horse" with good pelvic posture and an excellent downward leg position, giving good stability and improved sensations.
3 - Maximum reduction in the weight of the saddle and its accessories.
Principle of saddle position on the horse
A position further back on the horse
The position of english-style saddle (or "general purpose") is over the 9th dorsal vertebrae (see following picture).
However, Doctor GINIAUX, Osteopath and equine veterinarian, explains :
The horse's spine is an arch with its strongest point (the "keystone") at the 13th dorsal vertebra. The usual position of the rider is over the 9th dorsal vertebra, i.e. in front of this point, putting undue weight on the shoulders. If the weight is centred over the 12th and 13th dorsal vertebrae (the highest point of the spine), less effort is required of the muscles as the forces are better distributed between the fore and hindquaters. Riding in this way, the rider is not in front of the horse's movement, so the horse can engage its hindquarters under his weight and so all movement is improved.
The position of the Gaston Mercier saddle is over the 13th dorsal vertebrae (see following picture).
Main features of the Gaston Mercier saddle
- Rider's weight moved back to the base of the withers over the 12th and 13th dorsal vertabrae (the highest point of the spine).
- Stirrup bars moved back, for effortless balance directly above the rider's legs.
- Rider's weight distributed over a wider area of the horse's back (to avoid compression areas).
- Forward parts of panels are seated in the hollow of the shoulder, enabling :
- A better fit
- A good saddle stability (looser girthing)
- No weight or contact on the horse's loins
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In this video, Gaston Mercier explains why he has changed the Positioning of the saddle on the horse, in this overdemanding discipline which is equestrian endurance. |
