Development of locomotor parameters of the flying pace of Icelandic Horses after application of weights to the palmar aspect of the hoof

Abstract

The study was aimed at obtaining kinetic and timely data of the flying pace of Icelandic Horses and evaluating the influence of weights applied to the palmar aspect of the hooves of both forelimbs on variables tested. Seven Icelandic Horses were ridden in flying pace, once without and once with added weights. Force at impact, force at end impact, force at lift off, cycle duration, stance phase duration, swing phase duration, swing phase length and overlap were recorded using computerkinematographic devices on the metacarpal and metatarsal region of each limb. Data was analyzed using a generalized linear model, type III sums of squares to determine F- and p-values, with significance threshold of p< 0.05, post-hoc analyses were performed as t-tests over least square means. Mean values with standard deviations were obtained, when looking at all horses together, weights influenced force at impact, force at end impact and force at lift off significantly, as well as the overlap, resulting in greater gait-uniformity. Great individual differences were noted. The effect was greatest in less experienced horses. Insight into effects of the widely practiced use of weight-application to the distal forelimbs in Icelandic Horses is given. Conclusively, this use might be most beneficial in less experienced horses, but be less effective in horses well-trained in performing the flying pace.