Monitoring training response in young Friesian dressage horses using two different standardised exercise tests (SETs).

The article focuses on a study conducted to understand the effectiveness of two different standardized exercise tests (SETs) on the training responses of young Friesian dressage horses. The study found that lower intensity SETs were more effective in improving the fitness level of the horses, notably the ones that started with lower fitness levels.

Scope of the Research

• The research aimed at studying the strengths and weaknesses of an alternative protocol for standardized exercise tests (SETs) on Friesian dressage horses.
• Two different SETs – SETA and SETB – were implemented over a two-month training period with 9 young Friesian dressage horses. SETB incorporated short bouts of cantering alternated with walking and trotting, whereas SETA involved more extended periods of cantering.
• The researchers examined various parameters, including blood lactic acid (BLA) levels after cantering, average heart rate (HR) during trotting, and maximum HR during cantering.

Research Methods and Analysis

• For statistical comparison between the effects of SETA and SETB, the study used a paired two-sided T-test and Spearman Correlation-coefficient.
• The study paid special attention to monitoring BLA levels and HR throughout the training period to understand how these parameters responded to training through the two exercise test protocols.

Key Findings

• Observations showed a significantly higher level of BLA after cantering and a higher maximum HR during cantering in SETA compared to SETB, indicating more strain on horses during SETA.
• A significant training response based on BLA levels was seen in most horses, particularly in those that began with lower fitness levels – as they displayed the largest training response.
• BLA levels were significantly reduced in week 8 compared to week 0 in both SETA and SETB, indicating improved fitness over the training period.
• In SETA, a considerable correlation was found between BLA and average HR during trotting, suggesting a significant relationship between these two parameters. Such correlation was not seen during cantering.

Conclusions and Recommendations

• The research concludes that young Friesian horses do reach their anaerobic threshold with daily routine training that involves lower intensity than a SET, thus justifying close monitoring throughout training.
• BLA measurements, not HR, are effective for assessing and following up on training response.
• Horses that started with lower fitness levels showed the most significant training response.
• For better observation of physiological responses, HR during trotting rather than cantering should be monitored.
• SETB, which encompasses shorter cantering periods alternated with trotting and walking, is recommended for regular training within the aerobic window (a zone where physical exercise can be maintained without anaerobic metabolism).