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AUGUST 2006 • VOLUME 12 • © Copyright HORSES For LIFE™ Publications
Interactions Between Rider and Horse Objective: to study how the rider communicates with the horse and the effect of the rider's aids on the horse's performance. The long term goal is to develop methods of analysis that can be used as practical tools for riders, trainers and coaches.
This research project explores the science of riding, which has been largely neglected in the past. In addition to the scientific value, the findings will be of direct benefit to riders and trainers. Ultimately, the goal is to develop an immediate feedback system describing the timing and strength of the aids given by the rider, and the effect of these aids on the horse's performance. Rein Tension The initial stage of the project was to develop a method of measuring tension in the left and right reins. Sensors are inserted between the bit ring and the rein. In our initial studies the rein sensors had to be connected to a computer via a long cable, so the horse was ridden in a large circle around the data collection equipment.
We have recently purchased a telemetry system that allows data to be collected without a cable, so the horse is free to move all over the arena. The data indicate that tension in the reins is constantly changing and there are spikes in the tension profile that occur in rhythm with the horse's footfalls. These appear to be the result of the almost imperceptible nodding motion of the horse's head. The peak tension and the relationship between inside and outside reins seems to differ between riders.
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