Heart rate response and plasma lactate concentrations of horses competing in the speed and endurance phase of 3-day combined training events.

The research examines the exercise intensity of horses participating in three-day combined training events across three competition levels. By monitoring the heart rate responses and plasma lactate concentrations in horses, the exercise intensity and condition at different competition stages are analyzed.

Methodology

• The exercise intensity was examined during three-day combined training events involving three distinct competition levels. The competitions included two same level competitions (CCI with 7 horses and another CCI with 11 horses) and a higher level competition (CCI with 23 horses).
• Environmental conditions were kept consistent with cool temperatures and 100% cloud cover.
• Heart rates were recorded every five seconds using a heart rate monitor.
• Plasma lactate concentrations were measured at rest, 60 seconds after, and 10 minutes after the end of Phase D or the cross-country test.

Observations

• Mean heart rates varied significantly across the separate phases. The lowest heart rates were observed during Phase A, and significantly high heart rates were recorded during Phase B and D.
• It was during Phase B and D, deemed as more strenuous parts of the training, that more intense submaximal work was witnessed in the horses. The low-intensity aerobic exercise recorded during Phases A and C alternated with this intense effort is noteworthy.
• The plasma lactate concentration increased post exercise, indicating a significant anaerobic response. However, there was a decline in lactate concentration after 10 minutes.

Conclusion

• Despite the increase in distance, difficulty of jumps, faster optimum speeds, and the number of efforts, the work intensity remained consistent across all competition levels and time frames.
• In addition to low-intensity aerobic exercise, successful completion of three-day combined training events requires horses to engage in more intense submaximal work. It’s this combination of aerobic and anaerobic work that forms the core of horse training and competition riding.