Biomechanical variables in Icelandic horse riders and the effect on tolt performance: A pilot study

AimTo identify how riding rein direction (left and right) and rider asymmetry affect tolt performance in Icelandic horses. MethodsTwo horses were ridden in tolt by four riders on both left and right reins. Riders wore pressure insoles that measured the total absolute force (F-Abs) and absolute force difference (F-Diff) in their left and right feet in the stirrups. A 3D motion-analysis system recorded the degrees of side-to-side movement in the pelvis (RollP) and in the thoracolumbar region (RollT). Lateral advanced placement (LAP) and duty factor (DF) were calculated to determine tolt performance. One-way ANOVAs were used to assess the effect of rein direction on rider asymmetry variables (F-Abs, F-Diff, RollP and RollT) and tolt performance (LAP, DF) on a group level (n = 8). Within-subject Spearman rank correlations (& rho;) were computed to determine the effect of rider asymmetry variables on tolt performance on an individual level. ResultsLAP was closer to 25% on the left rein compared to the right rein (mean difference: 1.8 & PLUSMN;1.2%; F-(1,F-7) = 16.333; p = 0.005, & eta;(2)(p) = 0.700). In addition, DF was lower on the left rein compared to the right rein (mean difference: 1.9 & PLUSMN;0.8%; F-(1,F-7) = 41.299; p<0.001, & eta;(2)(p) = 0.855). Individual relationships between RollT and LAP ranged from small negative to very large positive and reached significance for one rider (& rho; = 0.730; p = 0.040). Individual relationships between RollP and DF ranged from very large negative to very large positive and reached significance for two riders (& rho; = 0.731; p = 0.040; & rho; = -0.723 p = 0.043). ConclusionRein direction might influence tolt performance. Individual relationships between rider asymmetry and tolt performance were highly variable and reached significance in some instances, indicating that the relationship between rider asymmetry and tolt performance is highly individual. This type of biomechanical data can be used to provide valuable feedback to guide equestrians and coaches.

Automated summary

The aim of this study was to identify the factors that affect tolt performance in Icelandic horses, including rein direction and rider asymmetry. The results showed that rein direction had an impact on tolt performance, while the relationship between rider asymmetry and tolt performance varied among individuals.