Training as an influential factor on the locomotor pattern in Andalusian horses

The physiological and metabolic adaptations to exercise of the Andalusian horse seem to differ slightly from those found in other breeds. The authors studied the locomotor adaptation of 18 Andalusian horses to a training programme in relation to anaerobic energy metabolism, efficacy of the training programme, and changes associated with the onset of fatigue. They also tried to find out if these changes had become diminished by training. Several locomotor variables during trotting and galloping were determined and plasma lactate concentrations were measured before training and after two training periods of different lengths. While trotting after training, an increase in the duration of the restraint phase, a reduction in the propulsion phase and a decrease in the duration and length of step were observed. During galloping, training caused a reduction in stride length but an increase in stride frequency. Significant correlations were obtained between stride duration, frequency and length of step and lactate concentrations. The training might have caused a shift in metabolism from anaerobic to aerobic predominance. This reduction was coupled with a decrease in stride duration, in response to a shorter stance phase duration and an increase in stride frequency. A reduction in the fatigue level was not observed. The study concludes that this training programme was not sufficient for improving the physical capacity of Andalusian horses.