A review of research on equine locomotion and biomechanics.

This article reviews the existing research on how horses move (equine locomotion) and biomechanics, and identifies gaps in our understanding that will need to be addressed by future research efforts.

Overview and Purpose of the Research Paper

• This research paper is a comprehensive review of scientific literature on equine locomotion and biomechanics, intending to summarize the existing knowledge in these fields, highlight areas where more information is needed, and provide direction for future research projects.
• The main purpose of the review is to identify and address knowledge gaps in equine locomotion and biomechanics to facilitate future research.

Past Research Findings and Limitations

• The review suggests that earlier studies in equine locomotion and biomechanics often did not provide enough information about the basic principles in these disciplines. This lack of foundational information has hindered the progress of more complex, applied research topics within the field.

Progress in Equine Locomotion and Biomechanics

• The paper recognizes that despite the limitations of past research, there have been several notable contributions to the field. These contributions are particularly apparent in gait typology.
• Gait typology is the study of the different types of movements that horses use for locomotion, such as walking, trotting, and galloping.
• Significant strides have been made in examining the effects of racetrack surface and design on a horse’s movement. This understanding is important for improving equine performance and health.
• The paper also identifies meaningful progress in the study of limb kinetics, kinematics, and coordination. These concepts focus on the forces, movements, and coordination of the horse’s limbs during movement, which are key to understanding and improving horse locomotion.

Implications for Future Research

• The review suggests that future research needs to build upon these contributions and expand our understanding of equine locomotion and biomechanics.
• It indicates the importance of gathering more detailed foundational information to drive the progress of broader, more applied research in the field and positively impact horse health and performance.