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Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997)2008; 181(3); 266-273; doi: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2008.03.002

Usability of normal force distribution measurements to evaluate asymmetrical loading of the back of the horse and different rider positions on a standing horse.

Abstract: Pressure measurement devices in equine sports have primarily focused on tack (saddle pads and saddle fitting methods). However, saddle pressure devices may also be useful in evaluating the interaction and distribution of normal forces between the horse and rider, including rider position and riding technique. This study examined the validity, reliability, repeatability and possibilities of using a saddle pressure device to evaluate rider position. All measurements were performed using a standing horse. Validity was tested by calculating the correlation coefficient between measured normal force and the weight of the rider. Repeatability was tested by calculating intra-class correlation coefficients. The use of normal force measurements to evaluate horse-rider interaction was tested by adding a known weight to saddle or rider and collecting measurements with the rider sitting in four different positions. The device was found to be valid and reliable for force measurements when the measurement device was not replaced. The system could be used to determine the expected differences with added weight and in different rider positions. The normal force distribution measurement device proved to be a valid and reliable tool for studying the interaction between a rider and a static horse provided it is positioned carefully and consistently relative to both the horse and the saddle.
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Publication Date: 2008-05-27 PubMed ID: 18502669DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2008.03.002Google Scholar: Lookup
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  • Journal Article

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 study assesses the effectiveness of a saddle pressure device for evaluating the interaction and force distribution between a horse and its rider, focusing on rider position and technique.

Objective and Methodology

This research investigates the saddle pressure device utility in measuring the interaction and load distribution between the horse and rider. Testing was performed while the horse was standing, with the emphasis on rider’s position and riding technique. Validity of the study was verified by comparing the measured normal force and the weight of the rider. The reliability and repeatability aspect was confirmed by calculating intra-class correlation coefficients.

Experiment Setup and Procedure

The normal force distribution was studied by adding a known weight to the saddle or the rider, with the rider adjusting their posture to the four predetermined positions. All experiments were done with the rider in question maintaining a static horse stance.

Findings

  • The study discovered that the saddle pressure device was valid and reliable in measuring force, provided the device was not displaced between uses.
  • The system was found to be competent in predicting the differences in results when weight was added or when the rider assumed different positions.
  • The research concluded that a normal force distribution measurement device is a reliable gadget, as long as it is positioned accurately and consistently in relation to both the horse and the saddle.

Significance of the Study

This research adds to the body of knowledge about the potential use of saddle pressure devices in equestrian sports. It opens up new possibilities for these tools to help assess the correct rider position and techniques, which could ultimately improve horse welfare by preventing incorrect loading or potential injuries. The findings present new applications for these devices beyond the realm of tack fit, emphasizing their adaptability and relevance in the broader domain of horse-rider interaction.

Cite This Article

APA
de Cocq P, Clayton HM, Terada K, Muller M, van Leeuwen JL. (2008). Usability of normal force distribution measurements to evaluate asymmetrical loading of the back of the horse and different rider positions on a standing horse. Vet J, 181(3), 266-273. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tvjl.2008.03.002

Publication

Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997)
ISSN: 1090-0233
NlmUniqueID: 9706281
Country: England
Language: English
Volume: 181
Issue: 3
Pages: 266-273

Researcher Affiliations

de Cocq, Patricia
  • Experimental Zoology, Animal Sciences Group, Wageningen UR, P.O. Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands. Patricia.deCocq@wur.nl
Clayton, Hilary M
    Terada, Kayo
      Muller, Mees
        van Leeuwen, Johan L

          MeSH Terms

          • Animals
          • Biomechanical Phenomena
          • Horses / physiology
          • Humans
          • Pressure

          Citations

          This article has been cited 13 times.
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            doi: 10.3390/ani12233364pubmed: 36496885google scholar: lookup
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            doi: 10.3390/ani11041105pubmed: 33924326google scholar: lookup
          3. Uldahl M, Christensen JW, Clayton HM. Relationships between the Rider's Pelvic Mobility and Balance on a Gymnastic Ball with Equestrian Skills and Effects on Horse Welfare. Animals (Basel) 2021 Feb 9;11(2).
            doi: 10.3390/ani11020453pubmed: 33572205google scholar: lookup
          4. Hobbs SJ, St George L, Reed J, Stockley R, Thetford C, Sinclair J, Williams J, Nankervis K, Clayton HM. A scoping review of determinants of performance in dressage. PeerJ 2020;8:e9022.
            doi: 10.7717/peerj.9022pubmed: 32355578google scholar: lookup
          5. Wilk I, Wnuk-Pawlak E, Janczarek I, Kaczmarek B, Dybczyńska M, Przetacznik M. Distribution of Superficial Body Temperature in Horses Ridden by Two Riders with Varied Body Weights. Animals (Basel) 2020 Feb 21;10(2).
            doi: 10.3390/ani10020340pubmed: 32098105google scholar: lookup
          6. Byzova A, Roozbahani H, Handroos H, Hakansson N, Lankarani HM. Monitoring of the human body and brain behavior using optical motion capture system and EEG utilizing horseback riding simulator: an extended case study. J Phys Ther Sci 2020 Jan;32(1):85-91.
            doi: 10.1589/jpts.32.85pubmed: 32082035google scholar: lookup
          7. Hobbs SJ, Clayton HM. Collisional mechanics of the diagonal gaits of horses over a range of speeds. PeerJ 2019;7:e7689.
            doi: 10.7717/peerj.7689pubmed: 31576241google scholar: lookup
          8. Soroko M, Zaborski D, Dudek K, Yarnell K, Górniak W, Vardasca R. Evaluation of thermal pattern distributions in racehorse saddles using infrared thermography. PLoS One 2019;14(8):e0221622.
            doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0221622pubmed: 31449556google scholar: lookup
          9. Clayton HM, Hampson A, Fraser P, White A, Egenvall A. Comparison of rider stability in a flapless saddle versus a conventional saddle. PLoS One 2018;13(6):e0196960.
            doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0196960pubmed: 29874238google scholar: lookup
          10. Pessia P, Cordella F, Schena E, Davalli A, Sacchetti R, Zollo L. Evaluation of Pressure Capacitive Sensors for Application in Grasping and Manipulation Analysis. Sensors (Basel) 2017 Dec 8;17(12).
            doi: 10.3390/s17122846pubmed: 29292717google scholar: lookup
          11. Balog O, Havanecz K, Csányi T, Ökrös C, Tóth L, Berki T. A narrative review of factors influencing rider performance and horse welfare in equestrian activities. Front Sports Act Living 2025;7:1744918.
            doi: 10.3389/fspor.2025.1744918pubmed: 41660061google scholar: lookup
          12. Becard B, Sapone M, Martin P, Hanne-Poujade S, Babu A, Hébert C, Joly P, Bertucci W, Houel N. Quantification of the Effect of Saddle Fitting on Rider-Horse Biomechanics Using Inertial Measurement Units. Sensors (Basel) 2025 Jul 30;25(15).
            doi: 10.3390/s25154712pubmed: 40807876google scholar: lookup
          13. Clayton HM, MacKechnie-Guire R, Hobbs SJ. Riders' Effects on Horses-Biomechanical Principles with Examples from the Literature. Animals (Basel) 2023 Dec 15;13(24).
            doi: 10.3390/ani13243854pubmed: 38136891google scholar: lookup
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