Stable Science from Dr David Marlin's Animalweb12 Huhti 2025

Snaffle vs Double Bridle – What Does the Science Say?

In this episode, Dr David Marlin takes us inside the findings of a ground-breaking new research paper titled “Comparison of Rein Forces and Pressure Beneath the Noseband and Headpiece of a Snaffle Bridle and a Double Bridle”, recently published in the journal Animals.

Amidst ongoing public debate and controversy surrounding the use of double bridles in dressage, David shares how this study aimed to put assumptions to the test with science. Working with a team of researchers and high-level dressage horses, the study compared rein tension and pressure at key contact points across both snaffle and double bridles.

David also tackles common misconceptions about bit mechanics, explaining why the curb bit is a class one lever with a floating fulcrum, not the “nutcracker” some claim it to be. He discusses the ethics of research publishing, the importance of evidence-based conclusions, and his hopes for a more flexible and welfare-focused approach to bridle use in sport.

This is a must-listen for anyone interested in equine science, dressage, and horse welfare. The study was funded by Hartpury University and the British Equestrian Federation, and the full paper is freely available online. Follow this link to read more about it - New Study Reveals Similarities in Rein Tension and Noseband Pressure Between Snaffle and Double Bridles

----

To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.com

Not a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tämä jakso on lisätty Podme-palveluun avoimen RSS-syötteen kautta eikä se ole Podmen omaa tuotantoa. Siksi jakso saattaa sisältää mainontaa.

Jaksot(118)

YardWise 2026: The Event Every Yard Owner Needs to Know About

What happens when some of the equestrian industry's most experienced voices come together with one shared goal: helping yard owners build stronger, more sustainable businesses?In this special episode ...

20 Kesä 1h 1min

The Hidden Key to Performance? Equine Breathing and Respiratory Health

This podcast brings together two of the most respected voices in equine respiratory science and performance, as Dr David Marlin sits down with Jim Chiapetta for a fascinating deep dive into equine bre...

23 Touko 52min

Inside Your Horse’s Mouth - an interview with Meisha Micklewright BVetMed MRCVS BAEDT

In this episode of the Animalweb podcast, Helen Stock speaks to veterinary surgeon and equine dentist Meisha Micklewright about the realities of equine dental care. Drawing on her dual qualification a...

28 Maalis 51min

What’s Really in Your Horse’s Bedding? Dust, Data and the Truth About Bale Weights

In this episode of the Animalweb podcast, Dr David Marlin takes a deep dive into something every horse owner uses, but few truly scrutinise, bedding.Drawing on extensive independent testing, owner sur...

28 Helmi 14min

Coaching With Purpose: Research Insights on Horse Welfare and Decision-Making in Showjumping

What does a “good life” really look like for a showjumping horse, and how can coaching methods support both equine welfare and rider decision-making under pressure?In this episode of the Animalweb pod...

24 Tammi 1h 4min

Dr Gillian Tabor explores Bioresonance and the Science Behind the Claims

Bioresonance (sometimes called bio-energetic therapy or bio-frequency therapy) is an alternative or complementary therapy based on the idea that every cell, tissue, or organ in the body emits its own ...

18 Loka 202520min

Creating a Happy Riding School - Dr David Marlin chats with Anne Price

In this conversation, Dr David Marlin speaks with Annie Price, who runs a riding school in Somerset. They discuss the importance of creating a positive and supportive environment for riders, particula...

11 Loka 202547min

Rider in Balance with Maria Terese Engell

In this relaxed conversation, expert vet and rider biomechanics specialist Maria Terese Engel joins Animalweb to discuss her groundbreaking research into rider asymmetry and movement patterns. Drawing...

9 Elo 202530min