Description
James Cooling is an independent bit and bridle fitter based in East Yorkshire. He is also a GP working 3 days a week in the NHS. He is a founding member of the Association of Professional Bit and Bridle Fitters (APBBF), a not-for profit membership organisation for professional bit and bridle fitters.
He has worked with a range of horses from “Happy Hackers” to racehorses and Grand Prix dressage horses. He utilises his deep understanding of science, anatomy, and biomechanics along with the riding discipline when assessing the horse and rider.
James started bitting horses in 2016, originally working with Horse Bit Fit after completing further lorinery training. He helped expand the company including training and educating new consultants. He developed, co-authored and examined the practical elements of the LANTRA approved bit and bridle fitting courses. He organised and ran annual CPD training weekends. He has delivered educational/CPD events for other professionals including Bishop Burton College, the Institute of Veterinary and Animal Physiotherapists and Dressage Ireland. He regularly does talks and demos to a variety of riding clubs and organisations
James has co-authored or contributed to several articles on bit and bridle fitting in the IH magazine, British Dressage and Horses and People magazine (Australia).
Outside of work James has been riding for over 40 years. He currently co-owns and trains 7 horses with his wife. He has completed the BHS stage 3 training and worked as a freelance instructor. He has completed the IH courses and in 2015 was invited to California to stay with Monty Roberts and assist him on a Horse Sense and Healing course at Flag is Up Farm.
James will be answering:
