Applied load on the horse's back under racing conditions

Area of Science:

• Equine biomechanics
• Veterinary science
• Sports science

Background:

• Racing saddles are designed for minimal weight and maximum movement.
• Limited cushioning in racing saddles may compromise horse welfare and performance.
• Understanding saddle pressure distribution is crucial for equine athlete health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the pressure exerted by a standard racing saddle on Thoroughbred horses during racing.
• To analyze the relationship between saddle pressure, speed, and movement dynamics.
• To identify areas of high pressure concentration on the horse's back.

Main Methods:

• Pressure mapping was conducted on five Thoroughbred horses under racing conditions (canter and gallop).
• Horses were ridden by professional jockeys (60 kg) on a race track.
• Saddle pressure, force, and center of pressure motion were recorded at two distinct racing velocities.

Main Results:

• Maximal pressures reached 134 kPa at canter and 116 kPa at gallop.
• Mean peak pressures were 73.6 kPa (canter) and 54.8 kPa (gallop).
• Highest pressures (>35 kPa) were consistently localized along the spinous processes, averaging 12.5 cm in length.

Conclusions:

• Racing saddles generate substantial peak pressures, particularly over sensitive bony prominences.
• These high pressures may pose a risk to equine back soundness.
• Further research is needed to develop saddles that mitigate pressure and enhance horse welfare.