Understanding saddle fit goes far beyond checking wither clearance or adding another pad. Saddle fit directly influences how a horse moves, how comfortable they feel in their body, and how well they can perform over time. On Tuesday, February 17, HorseGrooms invites grooms and equestrians to an in-depth educational MeetUp focused on the connection between saddle fit, anatomy, and biomechanics, led by Amanda Anderson of Saddle Fitting US.
This MeetUp will take place at Diamante Farms in Wellington, Florida, and is hosted by Stübben North America. It offers a rare opportunity to learn from one of the most knowledgeable and internationally respected saddle fitters in the field.
Why This MeetUp Matters
Grooms are often the first to notice subtle changes in a horse’s way of going, behavior, or comfort. Having a deeper understanding of anatomy and biomechanics helps grooms recognize when tack may be contributing to discomfort or restriction, even before obvious problems arise.
This session is designed to give participants a stronger foundation in how the horse’s body functions under saddle and how saddle design and fit can either support or compromise that function. The focus is on horse welfare, clarity, and long-term soundness.
What Amanda Will Teach
The MeetUp will begin with a 45-minute anatomy-focused presentation, followed by 30 minutes dedicated to spotting tack-related issues, myths, and misconceptions. The session will conclude with an extended 30-minute Q&A, allowing plenty of time for discussion and questions.
Anatomy and Biomechanics
Amanda will explain key anatomical structures that play a critical role in saddle fit and movement, including:
- Nuchal ligament and supraspinous ligament
- Thoracic sling
- Trapezius and rhomboid muscles
- Stay apparatus
- Spinalis, latissimus, longissimus, and iliocostalis muscles
- Serratus and pectoral muscles
- Scapula
- Sternum and xiphoid cartilage
- Center of gravity
Understanding how these structures work together helps explain why certain saddle designs or fitting choices can create restriction, soreness, or compensation patterns.
Six Rules of Saddle Fitting
Amanda will walk us through her six core rules of saddle fitting, providing a clear framework that helps grooms and professionals evaluate fit in a logical and horse-centered way.
Recognizing Problematic Tack Design
Participants will learn how to recognize saddle and saddle pad designs that are more likely to cause issues, and why certain features can interfere with movement or comfort.
Myths and Misconceptions
Common beliefs around saddle fit will be addressed, including:
- Interpreting dry spots
- The idea of “too much wither clearance”
- Half pad designs and materials
- Other frequently misunderstood aspects of tack and fit
The goal is to replace assumptions with understanding and observation.
About Amanda Anderson
Amanda Anderson is an independent saddle fitter with more than 24 years of experience. Since 2001, she has attended more than 20 saddle-fitting courses and schools in the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom, and continues to receive annual education with multiple brands in Germany, the UK, and Scotland.
Her background includes serving as Director of Equine Necropsy and the Denali Equine Research & Rehabilitation Center. She is also a certified equine sports massage therapist, an acupuncture physician and doctor of oriental medicine, and a USDF Bronze Medalist.
Amanda teaches saddle fit, anatomy, and biomechanics worldwide and is widely respected for her strong advocacy for equine welfare and her evidence-based, anatomy-driven approach.
Her work is grounded in one core principle: education for riders and professionals based on anatomy and biomechanics.
Hosted by Stübben North America
This MeetUp is hosted by Stübben North America, whose ongoing support makes high-level, in-person education for grooms possible. Stübben’s commitment to research, craftsmanship, and horse welfare aligns closely with the goals of this session.
Event Details
Date: Tuesday, February 17
Time: 6 to 7:30 PM
Location: Diamante Farms, 11223 Acme Rd, Wellington, FL
The MeetUp is free and open to everyone. Equestrians who are able to support HorseGrooms’ mission are welcome to make a small voluntary donation.
RSVP is required.
Please RSVP in the HorseGrooms Community. Those who prefer not to join the community can RSVP via this Google Form.
We look forward to welcoming you for an evening of in-depth learning that puts the horse first and helps grooms better understand what is happening beneath the saddle.
Stübben is a fifth-generation equestrian company founded in 1894 in Krefeld, Germany. Known worldwide for its craftsmanship, sustainable materials, and dedication to the welfare of both horse and rider, Stübben produces high-quality saddles along with bridles, bits, girths, spurs, and other tack. Their approach blends traditional leatherwork with modern innovation, including features that support balance, comfort, and freedom of movement for the horse. Stübben North America, the company’s North American division, brings this legacy to riders, trainers, and grooms across the continent with a strong focus on education and practical horsemanship.
