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Hi lovely,

A ‘bit’ of a relaunch – gosh we’re hilarious at IH HQ …

Following last week’s email about the brilliant James Cooling and his mind-bending depth of knowledge… a few of you got in touch wanting to know a bit more about him and the Association of Professional Bit and Bridle Fitters.

Which is actually perfect timing! 

Because there is quite a lot going on with the APBBF at the moment.

So I thought I’d share.

What’s Going On With The APBBF?  

A ‘bit’ of a relaunch… with a very clear message

The APBBF has recently relaunched with a focus on something they’re calling:

“Unity in Welfare.”

And I really like this.

Because instead of splitting the horse world into camps (bit vs bitless… right vs wrong… my way vs your way…)

the message is actually very simple:

  • the horse doesn’t care what “category” we put ourselves in
  • their comfort and welfare needs must be met either way

Whether a horse is ridden in a bit or bitless…their comfort needs, like protecting sensitive nerves, managing poll pressure, and allowing free movement, are always the same.

Hence, APBBF aims to make equine comfort and science-based fitting the standard for every horse, regardless of the equipment used.

And that shift alone feels quite important.

Empowering the Community 

One of the most exciting parts of this relaunch is the Brand New Learning Hub.

Which is free to access!… and designed to empower the broader equestrian community with tools and education, such as:

  • Articles & Research: Simple explanations of anatomy and biomechanics
  • Instructional Videos: Videos showing what good comfortable bit/bridle fit actually looks like
  • Downloads: Practical tools you can use to check your horse’s equipment at home

All aimed at helping us make better, more informed decisions for our horses.

Finding Someone You Can Actually Trust

They’ve also made it easier to find an approved fitter.

And this is something I think is worth highlighting…

Because every APBBF member listed has to meet specific standards around:

  • Qualifications and experience
  • Insurance
  • Professional conduct
  • First aid 
  • Ongoing education

Which, honestly, means when you choose an APBBF approved member, you can be confident you are working with a trusted professional who is dedicated to equine welfare.

In the same way I would always recommend you work with a vet physio who’s part of a recognised, regulated body… the same thinking should apply to your bit and bridle fitter too.

Welcoming New Members…

They’re also opening things up to new members. Not just specialist fitters, but also Vets, Physios, Dental technicians, Bodyworkers and so on. So for any professionals who recognise the importance of bridle fit in overall horse welfare. Check this out.

So why does this matter?

Because (bringing it back to last week’s email…)

the more I’ve looked into this area, the more I realise:

  • this isn’t just about bits
  • it’s about the whole picture

Which Brings Me Nicely Onto This…

As mentioned last week, we’ve got James back with another webinar on the 20th of May at 7pm!

“Getting to know your horse’s head — how anatomy shapes movement and behaviour.”

And if last week’s rabbit hole taught me anything… it’s that this is far more complex (and important) than most of us realise.

If you joined us last time, you’ll know how good these sessions are.

And if you didn’t… this is a very good place to start.

Book your place here or join as a member to access all webinars for free, including recordings. 

All the best,

Abi Pass MSc Vet Phys & The Intelligent Horsemanship Team

PS. if you have a friend who might find these emails interesting do pass this on or get them to subscribe at www.intelligenthorsemanship.co.uk and get the free groundwork exercises!

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Lethornes RG17 8QP Lambourn GB