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Proceedings. Biological sciences2010; 278(1715); 2105-2111; doi: 10.1098/rspb.2010.2395

Grip and limb force limits to turning performance in competition horses.

Abstract: Manoeuverability is a key requirement for successful terrestrial locomotion, especially on variable terrain, and is a deciding factor in predator-prey interaction. Compared with straight-line running, bend running requires additional leg force to generate centripetal acceleration. In humans, this results in a reduction in maximum speed during bend running and a published model assuming maximum limb force as a constraint accurately predicts how much a sprinter must slow down on a bend given his maximum straight-line speed. In contrast, greyhounds do not slow down or change stride parameters during bend running, which suggests that their limbs can apply the additional force for this manoeuvre. We collected horizontal speed and angular velocity of heading of horses while they turned in different scenarios during competitive polo and horse racing. The data were used to evaluate the limits of turning performance. During high-speed turns of large radius horizontal speed was lower on the bend, as would be predicted from a model assuming a limb force limit to running speed. During small radius turns the angular velocity of heading decreased with increasing speed in a manner consistent with the coefficient of friction of the hoof-surface interaction setting the limit to centripetal force to avoid slipping.
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Publication Date: 2010-12-08 PubMed ID: 21147799PubMed Central: PMC3107634DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2010.2395Google Scholar: Lookup
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Summary

This research summary has been generated with artificial intelligence and may contain errors and omissions. Refer to the original study to confirm details provided. Submit correction.

The research article explores the maneuverability of sprinting horses during competition, specifically in turns of varying radius. The analysis focuses on how factors like leg force, speed, and friction between the hoof and surface influence the turning performance and speed of horses.

Objective of the Research

  • The research aims to understand the factors that limit the turning performance of competitive horses.
  • This study was conducted on the basis of previously established models which forecast the slowing down of human sprinters during bend running due to the additional required leg force.
  • It was noticed, in contrast to humans, that greyhounds do not slow down during bend running, indicating the possibility that their limbs can apply the necessary additional force.

Methodology

  • The researchers collected data on the horizontal speed and angular velocity of horses during turns in different racing scenarios.
  • The data collection took place during competitive polo and horse racing, providing a natural and unbiased environment for the study.

Findings

  • When performing high-speed turns of a larger radius, it was observed that the horses’ horizontal speed was lower on the bend.
  • This observation aligned with the established model that maintains a limit of limb force against running speed.
  • However, during small radius turns the angular velocity of heading decreased with increasing speed.
  • The researchers hypothesized that the friction between the hoof and the surface was a factor in these changes, in order to prevent the horse from slipping.

Implications

  • The study sheds light on the physical constraints and adaptations that influence the maneuverability of running horses, especially in high speed and competitive scenarios.
  • The findings could have implications for the training and health management of competitive horses, and potentially steer the development of better running surfaces or protective horse footwear.

Cite This Article

APA
Tan H, Wilson AM. (2010). Grip and limb force limits to turning performance in competition horses. Proc Biol Sci, 278(1715), 2105-2111. https://doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2010.2395

Publication

Proceedings. Biological sciences
ISSN: 1471-2954
NlmUniqueID: 101245157
Country: England
Language: English
Volume: 278
Issue: 1715
Pages: 2105-2111

Researcher Affiliations

Tan, Huiling
  • Structure and Motion Laboratory, The Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK.
Wilson, Alan M

    MeSH Terms

    • Acceleration
    • Animals
    • Biomechanical Phenomena
    • Extremities / physiology
    • Horses / anatomy & histology
    • Horses / physiology
    • Running / physiology

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