Our Mission
Our mission is to deliver a robust and comprehensive saddle fitter training program in an intimate, supportive, and personalized learning environment. Our curriculum blends theoretical and practical knowledge with hands-on practice. We aim to cultivate ethical, compassionate, and versatile saddle fitters equipped to excel in today's dynamic and competitive equine industry.
Our Location
The Saddle Fit Academy had its beginning at Heritage Farm in Easthampton, MA where owner Meg Deitner provided a starter saddle shop and classroom. While we were sad to leave the space after 4-years of occupancy, we needed more room.
Now in a larger location in Northampton, MA, we have a classroom, saddle shop (Western and English), workroom, kitchen and bathroom. It is a climate controlled, comfortable learning space with plenty of space for our limited number of students to ensure personalized attention and optimal learning outcomes. Hands-on learning continues at area barns who partner with us.
Former Location at Heritage Farm
New Location in Northampton, MA
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Our Instructors
Our experienced instructors provide comprehensive, practical expertise for any rider discipline. Driven by a passion for equine well-being, they foster a supportive learning environment where students thrive and achieve their goals.
Lise Krieger brings three decades of teaching and curriculum design experience to the Saddle Fit Academy classroom. With a Doctorate of Education and extensive teaching tenure, Lise brings a wealth of teaching expertise to her role. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes experiential learning, empowering students to explore hands-on solutions to saddle-fitting challenges.
Lise completed her saddle fitter training with Mike Scott in 2017 and launched her business, New England Saddle Fit, the same year. She has completed multiple continuing education courses with The North American Saddlery School, as well as classes with David Genadek and Equilearn and Wendy J Winn of to round out her Western education.
Prioritizing the welfare and comfort of the horse above all else, Lise’s mission is to find the saddle that’s best for the horse, the rider, and the rider’s budget, regardless of brand. She emphasizes the importance of correct saddle fit as integral as dentistry, hoof care, and veterinary work.
Guest Instructor
Saddle fit expert and author Mike Scott boasts over 20 years of professional experience training saddle fitters. His renowned school of saddle fitting and flocking has attracted students from around the globe due to his unique focus on saddle anatomy and its impact on horse physiology. In 2001, Mike completed his bridle-making and intermediate repairs certification at the Cumbria School of Saddlery in Penrith, UK, followed by earning certification from the Master Saddlers Association (MSA) Saddle Fitter’s Certification Program in 2002. He is also the author of several publications, including The Basic Principles of Equine Massage/Muscle Therapy (book and video), The Basic Principles of English Saddle Fitting (DVD), and The Equine Training Log and Health Care Diary. As Mike transitions toward retirement, The Saddle Fit Academy, led by graduate Lise Krieger, continues to build upon his esteemed legacy with new offerings. Mike will remain involved as a guest instructor and mentor, sharing his invaluable expertise in select classes.