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Oxygen consumption (VO2) during trotting on a 10% decline
D F Hoyt1, S J Wickler, S F Garcia
1The Equine Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, 3801 W Temple Avenue, Pomona, California 91768, USA.
Equine Veterinary Journal. Supplement
|April 4, 2007
Summary
Horses require significantly less oxygen for downhill trotting compared to level locomotion. This eccentric exercise is safe and energetically efficient for equine athletes.
Area of Science:
- Equine physiology
- Exercise science
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Limited data exists on equine oxygen consumption during decline locomotion.
- Downhill running may induce muscle damage via eccentric contractions.
- Human studies show decreased VO2 and stride frequency on declines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate oxygen consumption (VO2) and stride frequency (SF) in horses trotting on a 10% decline versus a level surface.
- To test the hypothesis that VO2 and SF decrease on a decline.
Main Methods:
- Six horses were acclimated to treadmill locomotion on level and 10% decline gradients.
- Oxygen consumption was measured using open flow respirometry at various speeds (2.25-4.0 m/sec).
- Stride frequency was manually recorded.
Main Results:
- VO2 decreased by an average of 45% on the decline (P<0.009).
- Stride frequency was 2.7% slower on the decline.
- Minimum Cost of Transport occurred at a faster speed on the decline; no muscle soreness was observed.
Conclusions:
- Downhill trotting is a safe eccentric exercise for horses.
- Equine locomotion on a 10% decline requires nearly 50% less energy than level trotting.
- Further research is needed to determine optimal decline gradients and speed adjustments.
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