A preliminary study into rider asymmetry within equitation.

This research study examines the asymmetry in horse riders and how it might affect their performance and risk of injury. A range of measurements, including leg length inequality, were taken to assess the relation between these factors.

Research Methodology

• In their research, the authors used video analysis to study the asymmetry in the riders. They focused on the axial rotation (AR) & shoulder angle displacement (SAD) along with the inequality in leg length.
• Two different viewpoints, transverse and sagittal, were filmed simultaneously for each subject. In total, 17 female riders were studied as they performed various activities including walk, trot, and both left and right canter.
• The researchers measured the angle of the rider’s shoulders relative to the cranial caudal line at each limb impact for a full stride cycle.

Findings

• Among the outcomes, the study discovered that all riders in the sample displayed some form of left AR and had a greater range of movement (ROM) in their right shoulder in all gaits with the exception of the right canter.
• All participants were found to have leg length inequality (LLI) with a shorter right leg. However, the degree of LLI didn’t correlate directly to the quantity of AR or ROM, except during right canter. It was during the right canter that a significant negative correlation was observed.

Implications

• The findings from this study could have numerous practical applications, particularly in terms of devising more effective coaching techniques. Understanding asymmetry in riders could help coaches tailor their advice and training methods accordingly.
• Knowledge of these asymmetries could also lead to potential improvements in performance and safety for the riders. By addressing and mitigating these asymmetries, riders could reduce their risk of injury and perform at a higher level.
• In addition, this method of assessment provides an objective and replicable way of identifying asymmetrical characteristics in riders.