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Updated: Mar 15, 2026
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Construction of a Realistic, Whole-Body, Three-Dimensional Equine Skeletal Model using Computed Tomography Data
Published on: February 25, 2021
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How realistic is a racehorse simulator?
A M Walker1, A Martin1, T Pfau1
1Structure and Motion Lab and Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom.
Journal of Biomechanics
|September 6, 2016
Summary
Racehorse simulators offer fitness benefits but may hinder technique development. Their movement trajectory differs from real horses, potentially impacting jockey training effectiveness and requiring simulator programming adjustments.
Area of Science:
- Equine Biomechanics
- Sports Technology
Background:
- Race jockey training is complex and time-intensive.
- Rising horse care costs increase reliance on racehorse simulators.
- The accuracy and effectiveness of simulators for technique development are poorly understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify and compare sacral movement vectors between a racehorse simulator and a real galloping horse.
- To assess the implications of simulator accuracy for jockey training.
Main Methods:
- An inertial measurement unit was attached to the sacrum of six horses during training gallops and simulator use.
- Sacral rotation and displacement vectors (including roll, pitch, and displacements along three axes) were analyzed.
- Movement parameters were compared between the simulator and real horses.
Main Results:
- Real horses exhibited more varied sacral movement than the simulator.
- Horses showed greater dorso-ventral, medio-lateral, and roll amplitudes, but less cranio-caudal displacement.
- The simulator's lateral displacement trajectory was opposite to that of a real horse.
Conclusions:
- Racehorse simulators can aid fitness and positional training but may negatively impact technique due to differing movement patterns.
- Simulator programming may need adaptation to better match real horse biomechanics.
- Careful consideration of simulator use is advised to prevent detrimental training effects.
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