Rider Skill Affects Time and Frequency Domain Postural Variables When Performing Shoulder-in

Area of Science:

• Equestrian biomechanics
• Sports science
• Human movement analysis

Background:

• Rider asymmetry presents a challenge in equestrian sports, affecting performance in both straight lines and turns.
• Novice riders focus on following the horse's movement before influencing it, while advanced riders refine this interaction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the performance and kinematic patterns of novice and advanced riders during sitting trot in straight lines and shoulder-in movements.
• To identify biomechanical differences related to rider skill level and movement asymmetry.

Main Methods:

• Eight novice and eight advanced horse-rider combinations were analyzed using full-body inertial sensors.
• Riders performed sitting trot on straight lines, shoulder-in left, and shoulder-in right.
• Dressage scores were assigned, and kinematic data were analyzed in time and frequency domains.

Main Results:

• Advanced riders achieved higher dressage scores overall.
• Both groups scored lower on shoulder-in right movements.
• Advanced riders exhibited greater hip extension and external rotation in the outside leg during shoulder-in, crucial for horse rotation.

Conclusions:

• Skill level significantly influences rider kinematics, particularly hip and trunk movements, impacting horse performance.
• Asymmetry in shoulder-in right movements may be linked to specific trunk-to-pelvis rotation patterns.
• Understanding these biomechanical differences can inform training strategies for equestrian athletes.