Biokinematic effects of collection on the trotting gaits in the elite dressage horse.

This research study analysed the trotting gaits of six Grand Prix dressage horses, focusing on angular patterns and hoof trajectories to determine the effects of different collection degrees on performance. The findings confirmed prior observations, highlighting hindlimb pendulation and certain joint angles as key to dressage performance.

Methodology

• The study used six Grand Prix dressage horses whose trotting gaits were recorded using high-speed film (250 frames per second).
• The researchers analyzed various trotting styles including trot in hand, working trot, collected trot, passage, and piaffe.
• Particular attention was paid to the angular patterns and hoof trajectories of the left fore- and hindlimbs.
• The results were presented as average and standard deviation curves.

Findings

• The speed and stride length decreased as the collection intensity increased, with the stance durations of both fore and hind legs increasing.
• Unlike the other gaits, there was no suspension in piaffe, a highly collected, stylized trot.
• The advanced placement of trotting diagonals was positive in all gaits except for the piaffe.
• Changes in forelimb angular patterns were primarily due to a reduction in pendulation (swinging motion).
• Contrary to common belief, the horses did not step under themselves more when performing collection-intensive gaits like the collected trot, passage, and piaffe compared to a regular trot.
• In the gaits of piaffe and passage, the horses’ stifle and hock joints were more flexed at the beginning of the stance phase than in the other gaits.
• The maximized flexion of the hock joint occurred at the midpoint of the stance phase during passage and piaffe.

Implications

• Despite the small sample size, the study confirmed earlier observations about the conformation and gaits in dressage horses.
• The researchers asserted that hindlimb pendulation, angles of femur and pelvis inclinations, as well as elbow, carpal, stifle, and hock joint angles are the most significant factors influencing dressage performance.