Equine Performance Analysis

TRAINING ANALYSIS

The veterinary lameness evaluation is becoming less and less a search for sites of pain and inflammation. The traditional veterinary orthopaedic exam is no longer seen as the whole picture.

The training and riding methods are now dealt with in conjunction with the classical veterinary lameness exam. Both the quality and correctness of the riders aids and the quality and correct development of the contact are focuses of the examination.

For over 70 years the concept of ‘bridle lameness’ – the way in which the riders aids can cause gait disturbances – has been spoken of. It describes an uneven rhythm in a gait, that is easy to mistake for a true lameness, but is not caused by active inflammation nor can it be traced back to a previous injury. Training analysis and advice complement the classical lameness examination.

Other complaints that are presented to a veterinarian to investigate the cause of can also be traced to incorrect training practices. For example, irregular rhythm on bent lines, rideability issues, contact problems (horse behind the bit, leaning on the bit, tongue hanging out), difficulty for rider to sit to the trot, rearing, behavioural problems.  All of these problems can often be attributed to incorrect training or riding.

ANATOMICALLY CORRECT RIDING

It is necessary to understand the horses basic anatomy in order to ride and train a horse correctly to produce a sound, free moving athlete that is happy, successful in competition and remains sound as long as possible. The horses main strength and biggest weakness at the same time is his back.
Correct training and systematic strengthening of the horses back is essential for optimum performance and longterm soundness of the equine athlete.

This strong, supple connection between the forehand and the hindquarters is the key to good riding,