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HOW TO BECOME A PROFESSIONAL SADDLE FITTER
The IASF 4 Stage Program
"It's more than a career"
Becoming a saddle fitter is more than a career, it's a passion, a lifestyle.
Training to be a professional saddle fitter empowers you with a deep level of knowledge and understanding that most horse owners and equine professionals do not possess. You become the expert!
Considering Becoming a Saddle Fitter? Read this First
"huge opportunities""
Have you ever felt confused, frustrated or stressed about saddles or saddle fitters?  It's no surprise when you consider the amount of conflicting advice and opinions on the matter. So how do you know who to trust? There will always be one expert on the yard who proclaims to know it all but ask any saddle fitter and they will tell you that it's complicated! ​ Here at the IASF we understand the complexities of saddle fitting and educate our students using a proven, systematic approach based on current research, facts and lateral thinking. We blend teaching of horse and rider anatomy with biomechanics and basic physics while fostering a culture of critical thinking and a growth mindset. This is what sets our saddle fitters apart!  ​ With the saddle being one of the most important pieces of equipment for the ridden horse we understand that correct fit can make or break the human/equine relationship. ​ A career in saddle fitting stems from a passion for equine welfare teamed with the desire to help owners and as a vocation is incredibly rewarding. If you have ever had a bad experience with a saddle before you will understand the need to have a trustworthy and dedicated professional who truly understands the need of you and your horse. ​ ​
Is Saddle Fitting the Career for Me?
"work-life balance""
The greatest benefit to working as a saddle fitter is the ability to help horses and owners and protect them from saddle damage and the fact that you are considering saddle fitting as a career means that you are passionate about this and that's a great thing! ​ But there are many additional rewarding aspects. Working for yourself is not essential as there are opportunities to gain employment however the vast majority of saddle fitters do start their own business. This in itself brings huge opportunities for commercial success as well as the freedom to chose your own hours and create a flexible work-life balance.   ​ Potential earnings as a self employed saddle fitter are attractive and while it is not the only reason to select saddle fitting as a career, it is wise to understand your earning potential and return on your investment. ​ Investment in a professional certification is your first step and learning continues throughout your career. As an IASF saddle fitter you will join a growing and supportive community of like minded saddle fitting and equestrian experts from around the globe and play a pivotal role in equine welfare. ​ IASF saddle fitters are also welcome to join the Equine Fitters Directory as a QUALIFIED SADDLE FITTER, a central directory initiated by the Equine Fitters Council an independent and not-for-profit company established by the Worshipful Company of Saddlers and the Worshipful Company of Loriners ​ If you are ready to take the leap and delve into a career as a saddle fitter you are in the right place.
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"start your own business""
How Much can I Earn as a Saddle Fitter? Find Out Here
Four Stages to Becoming a Professional Saddle Fitter
For those who want a deeper understanding of saddle fitting or are considering moving on to professional certification our Stage 2 Remote Learning Access course is for you. Free access is provided to Stage 1 and completion of both stage 1 & 2 is required for entry onto the Stage 3 Professional Saddle Fitting course.
£245
SAVE £34.99
8 HOURS
6-18 MONTHS
If you have decided on a career in saddle fitting you can dive straight into the Stage 3 Professional Saddle Fitting Award. Access to our stage 1&2 Remote Learning Access Course is provided free of charge. Find out more about the content and structure of the course by clicking the button below
SAVE £245
Time Scales & Structure
This may look complicated at first glances but don't worry we'll explain everything.
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You can join our four stage program from anywhere in the world and at any time. The initial stages (1, 2 and the first part of stage 3) are delivered via remote learning which is self paced and instantly accessible. You can dip your toes in with our stage 1 or 2 but if you are committed to becoming a professional saddle fitter with the IASF you can save a significant amount of money by enrolling directly onto stage 3. When signing up to this course we give you complimentary access to the Stage 1 & 2 Remote Learning Access course so there are no barrier to overcome echoing our commitment to accessibility and value for money.
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STAGE 1
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Stage 1 takes around an hour to complete and your certificate is awarded as soon as you complete the course.
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STAGE 2
Stage 2 takes around 8 hours, it involves a short practical assignment (you just need access to a horse or even just an image of a horse) and your certificate is awarded immediately after completion.
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STAGE 3
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Stage 3 begins with on-line learning, to enrol you simply need to select your preferred practical training date. Don't worry if you are not sure when you want to attend, just drop us an email at admin@saddle-academy.com and we can help you.
See our practical stage 3 dates here
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Once you have selected your preferred practical date we will send you everything you need to get started. We only ask that you have completed your on-line learning before arriving for your practical training. On-line learning for this part takes around 40 hours and includes some assignments and simple knowledge tests.
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While waiting for your practical course dates you can get started on organising your travel and accommodation and making plans for any family; furry, four legged or otherwise while you are away. Exciting Times!
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Your practical week (5 days) will be jam packed with hands-on training where you will be working in small groups to put your theory into practice. It's an intense course but the IASF team will support you throughout, you will make life-long friends and our students and equine models always make it a week to remember.
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Day 5 of the practical course is exam day. Yes it's nerve wracking, exams always are but you are in good hands and each of our assessors has been in your position before. You can also complete your written test on day 5 or if one exam a day is enough for you then you can complete remotely at a later date.
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STAGE 4
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After your 5 day stage 3 training you can chose to return home straight away or stay on for our 2 day stage 4 course, we just hold your stage 4 certificates until you have completed all aspects of your stage 3.
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Stage 4 is all hands-on training (off the horse) with our resident Master Saddler teaching the repairs and IASF Advanced Tutor teaching on-site adjustments and advanced fitting solutions.
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This course is also open to any existing qualified saddle fitters who want to enhance their skills and upgrade their offering.
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