A comparative study of aerobic capacity and fitness in three different horse breeds (Andalusian, Arabian and Anglo-Arabian).

The research focuses on comparing the aerobic capacity and fitness of three horse breeds – Andalusian, Arabian, and Anglo-Arabian. The study involved a four-level exercise test with varying intensities, examining lactate concentrations and heart rates to make conclusions about physical endurance and fitness among the breeds.

Method

• The study gauged the aerobic capacity and fitness of Andalusian, Arabian, and Anglo-Arabian horses using a four-stage exercise test.
• The intensity of the exercise was increased gradually and comprised four levels: 15, 20, 25, and 30 km/h.

Findings

• The concentration of lactate at the initial three exercise levels was significantly lower in Arabian and Anglo-Arabian breeds when compared to Andalusian horses. However, similar levels were found across all breeds at the last (highest) level of exercise.
• Arabian and Anglo-Arabian horses achieved a higher rate than Andalusian horses when reaching plasma lactate concentration levels of 2mmol/l (VLA2) and 4mmol/l (VLA4).
• Andalusian horses had a significantly lower heart rate resting compared to the other two breeds. However, the difference was negligible when the horses hit 15 km/h during the exercise.
• At 20 km/h, Andalusian horses achieved higher heart rates than Arabian and Anglo-Arabian horses, while at 25 km/h, their heart rate exceeded only that of Anglo-Arabian horses. There were no substantial differences noted between the three breeds at 30 km/h.
• Expressing heart rate as a function of lactate plasma concentrations of 2mmol/l (HRLA2) and 4mmol/l (HRLA4) showed no significant variation across the three breeds.
• When the heart rate hit 150 (VHR150) and 200 beta/min (VHR200), Andalusian horses maintained the lowest speeds.

Conclusions

• The analysis of these various factors from the exercise trial reveals differences in the aerobic capacity and fitness of the three horse breeds.
• This information could be paramount in athletics, training, and veterinary care, ensuring overexertion or health risks are minimized based on the breed’s characteristics and capabilities.