Long distance exercise in the horse: Golden Horseshoe Ride 1978.

This research provides insights into the metabolic impacts of long distance riding on horses, based on a study of horses that participated in an 80km ride. Data obtained from the analyses of blood samples showed signs of moderate dehydration, aerobic activity using fats, lowered blood glucose levels, regular ketone levels post exercise, and a decline in both kidney and liver function post-ride.

Background of the Study

• The study examined the metabolic effects of long-distance riding on horses, with the fieldwork being conducted during the “Golden Horseshoe Ride” of 1978, where horses had to complete an 80 kilometers ride.
• Biochemical analyses were performed on blood samples collected before, immediately after, and an hour after the ride to capture potential metabolic changes occurring in the horses due to the strain of the marathon.

Key Findings

• The horses showed signs of moderate dehydration post-ride, which suggests there was a loss of fluids during the long-distance ride.
• Fat was the primary metabolic substrate being used by these horses, indicating they were primarily engaging in aerobic activity.
• There was a decrease in blood glucose levels, which could be due to the prolonged physical activity and the body’s utilization of glucose for energy.
• However, there was no evidence of post-exercise ketosis, indicating that despite the exercise and the possible fat metabolism, there was no excessive production of ketones.
• Alanine levels in the blood decreased. This amino acid can be used to make glucose in the body, a process known as gluconeogenesis.

Metabolic Hormone Levels and Organ Function

• A part of the research also observed hormone levels that are involved in metabolism, and how they related to the substrates available for gluconeogenesis.
• Furthermore, some signs of reduced kidney and liver function were noted in the horses after the ride, which was not showing much recovery in the first hour post-ride.
• This suggests that long rides might induce some level of strain on the kidney and liver functions of horses, requiring a longer recovery time.