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Journal of human kinetics2014; 42; 113-125; doi: 10.2478/hukin-2014-0066

Posture, flexibility and grip strength in horse riders.

Abstract: Since the ability to train the horse to be ambidextrous is considered highly desirable, rider asymmetry is recognized as a negative trait. Acquired postural and functional asymmetry can originate from numerous anatomical regions, so it is difficult to suggest if any is developed due to riding. The aim of this study was therefore to assess symmetry of posture, strength and flexibility in a large population of riders and to determine whether typical traits exist due to riding. 127 right handed riders from the UK and USA were categorized according to years riding (in 20 year increments) and their competition level (using affiliated test levels). Leg length, grip strength and spinal posture were measured and recorded by a physiotherapist. Standing and sitting posture and trunk flexibility were measured with 3-D motion capture technology. Right-left differences were explored in relation to years riding and rider competitive experience. Significant anatomical asymmetry was found for the difference in standing acromion process height for a competition level (-0.07±1.50 cm Intro/Prelim; 0.02±1.31 cm Novice; 0.43±1.27 cm Elementary+; p=0.048) and for sitting iliac crest height for years riding (-0.23±1.36 cm Intro/Prelim; 0.01±1.50 cm Novice; 0.86±0.41 cm Elementary+; p=0.021). For functional asymmetry, a significant interaction was found for lateral bending ROM for years riding x competition level (p=0.047). The demands on dressage riders competing at higher levels may predispose these riders to a higher risk of developing asymmetry and potentially chronic back pain rather than improving their symmetry.
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Publication Date: 2014-10-10 PubMed ID: 25414745PubMed Central: PMC4234750DOI: 10.2478/hukin-2014-0066Google 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.

This research evaluates the symmetry of posture, strength, and flexibility in horse riders, investigating whether these characteristics are essentially influenced by horse riding. The findings indicate that significant anatomical asymmetry exists in this population, particularly concerning acromion and iliac crest height differences. The study also suggests that higher-level competition could predispose riders to asymmetry, ironically leading to chronic back pain rather than enhancing their symmetry.

Study Objectives and Methodology

  • The aim of this research was to assess the symmetry of posture, flexibility and grip strength in a large pool of horse riders and to find out if typical traits exist that could be attributed to horse riding.
  • The research included 127 right-handed riders from UK and USA, categorized based on riding experience (measured in terms of years) and competition level (ranging between affiliated test levels).
  • A physiotherapist measured and recorded various parameters, including leg length, grip strength, and spinal posture. The research also used 3-D motion capture technology to measure the riders’ standing and sitting posture and trunk flexibility.
  • The study then explored the differences between the left and right side of the body in relation to years of riding experience and the rider’s competitive experience.

Key Findings

  • The study found evidence of significant anatomical asymmetry among the riders. This depended on the riders’ competition level, affecting the difference in standing height of the acromion process and the sitting height of the iliac crest.
  • In terms of functional asymmetry, a significant interaction was reported in the case of lateral bending ROM, with the years of riding experience and competition level playing a major role.
  • The research suggests that higher levels of dressage competition could potentially predispose the riders to developing asymmetry, which can lead to chronic back pain, instead of improving their posture symmetry as often believed.

Implications

  • This study offers important clues for understanding how horse riding can affect the rider’s posture, strength, and flexibility in the long run. It raises concerns over the increased risk of developing asymmetry and potentially chronic back pain, especially for riders who participate in higher levels of dressage competition.
  • Such understanding could be critical for developing appropriate training strategies and preventive measures to reduce the risk of chronic pain and functional challenges faced by horse riders.

Cite This Article

APA
Hobbs SJ, Baxter J, Broom L, Rossell LA, Sinclair J, Clayton HM. (2014). Posture, flexibility and grip strength in horse riders. J Hum Kinet, 42, 113-125. https://doi.org/10.2478/hukin-2014-0066

Publication

Journal of human kinetics
ISSN: 1640-5544
NlmUniqueID: 101513031
Country: Poland
Language: English
Volume: 42
Pages: 113-125

Researcher Affiliations

Hobbs, Sarah Jane
  • Centre for Applied Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK.
Baxter, Joanna
  • Craven College, Skipton, UK.
Broom, Louise
  • Personal Best, Yorks, UK.
Rossell, Laura-Ann
  • Myerscough College, Bilsborrow, UK.
Sinclair, Jonathan
  • Centre for Applied Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK.
Clayton, Hilary M
  • Sport Horse Science, LC, MI, USA.

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Citations

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