Development of conditioning programs for dressage horses based on time-motion analysis of competitions.

The research explores the physical requirements of dressage horses in Canadian competitions to create effective training programs. By analysing the different sequences and movements in one competition, the study offers recommendations for horses competing at basic and medium levels.

Assessment of Time-Motion Characteristics

• The researchers studied the time-motion characteristics of dressage competitions in Canada, focusing on basic to medium level events.
• These characteristics were analysed by observing a competition involving six different levels from ‘basic 1’ to ‘medium 3’.
• Each dressage test was broken down into sequences based on the type and speed of the horse’s movement. The duration of these sequences was carefully tracked using video recordings.

Comparisons Between Basic and Medium Levels

• Upon analysis, it was found that basic-level tests had fewer sequences compared to medium level tests, which were both shorter in duration and distance.
• Interestingly, despite differences in the lengths and durations of sequences, the average speed remained the same across both basic and medium levels.

Sport-Specific Conditioning Recommendations

• The study proposes that horses competing at the basic level should be conditioned using five-minute exercise periods. Beginning from the basic 2 level, short bursts (10 seconds in length) of extended trot and canter should be included in the regimen.
• For horses preparing for medium-level competitions, the duration of the work periods should increase to seven minutes. This training should include 10- to 12-second bursts of medium or extended trot and canter.
• To mimic the energy expenditure needed in actual competitions, frequent transitions should be incorporated into the training to help the horses get accustomed to overcoming inertia.

This study provides crucial insights into how tailored training programs for dressage horses can be developed based on the demands of different competition levels. These recommendations aim to help trainers optimise the performance of these horses while ensuring their physical preparedness for competitions.