In late 2012, I was asked to do some research into bits. After a couple of months worth of research, I concluded that all those x-rays were very interesting. However, a picture taken while a horse was standing still and often sedated would never show an image that would reflect reality. After all, a bit is used for riding: so while the horse is in motion! As a result, I quickly began to put theory into practice by literally switching things up: I changed bits to see the effect. To my amazement, the difference was quite noticeable. I also noticed was that the description added by the manufacturer of the bit was not correct. This was my incentive – I developed my biomechanical view of horses and a unique approach to this field. I think it is important to measure precisely what type of pressure distribution each horse requires to achieve that correct level of self-carriage and engagement. This can only be adequately judged when the horse is presented under the saddle while in motion – my second eye-opener.

SEARCHING FOR ANSWERS AND ALWAYS LOOKING FOR WAYS TO IMPROVE THE HORSE’S LOCOMOTION IS VERY CLOSE TO MY HEART. THAT IS WHAT 2FITHORSES STANDS FOR.

Getting a horse to move to the best of their ability while avoiding potential injuries: that is what I love about my job. When I see a horse that cannot move to the best of its ability and the puzzle is not complete yet, I will not hesitate to use more creative measures to solve this challenge through determination. Gradually, I started to truly distinguish myself in this field. I began by developing a pad, initially meant for ‘difficult’ horses, but soon it became evident that even ‘normal’ horses benefited from pressure distribution. A horse indeed indicates what type of pressure he likes and in what areas!

Even to this day, I am often surprised by what kind of impact a small change can have on a horse. If you want a horse to move optimally down to the smallest detail, you will have to adjust your bridle down to the smallest detail as well. However, this was impossible to achieve using any bridles on the market at the time. That is why I developed my own line of bridles – purely out of frustration. After a year and a half of designing and testing, I finally had the bridle I wanted, and production started. That was three years ago. Girths soon followed, and why stop there? There is so much more under development!