A new study at ARU Writtle Equine Centre is inviting riders to take part in research exploring the impact of the Equiseat Aid, an innovative training device designed to support rider symmetry and balance in the saddle.
Participants will be asked to attend two data collection sessions at Writtle: one during the week beginning 27 October, and another during the week beginning 8 December. The same horse must be used for both sessions.
Before starting, riders will be given time to let their horse settle into the environment, with access to a field or arena for relaxation. They’ll then tack up as usual, with a thin saddle pressure sensor placed between the saddle pad and the horse’s skin.
Each session follows a short, structured riding script consisting of:
- 10-minute walk warm-up
- 5 minutes trot warm-up
- 5 minutes of trot (alternating sitting and rising) on straight lines
- 3 × 20 m circles, each rein in sitting trot
- Repeat in rising trot, followed by a canter cool-down
Riders will complete this routine once without the Equiseat Aid device and once with it fitted. Total riding time will be no more than 60 minutes, including warm-up and cool-down.
The Equiseat Aid (see equiseataid.com) will be fitted around the rider’s weaker thigh. Participants are asked to wear a gym-style top or tight-fitting shirt; rider biomechanics jackets are available if needed, along with standard riding boots and an approved helmet.
Before each session, researchers will fit motion sensors and markers and calibrate the system by weighing the rider. After cooling down, riders can use the on-site wash area before loading their horse.
Between the two visits, participants must commit to using the Equiseat Aid at least three times a week during regular riding sessions.
Those taking part will receive:
- A free Equiseat Aid device, worth £89
- A £50 Amazon voucher on completion of both sessions
If you’re interested in taking part or would like to know more, contact Animalweb Expert Roberta Blake at roberta.blake@aru.ac.uk.
