Abstract
The current thesis explores the mechanisms of horse rider postural asymmetry by examining muscle activation patterns and pressure under the saddle during horse riding at different gaits. Additionally, this thesis develops a low-cost protocol for equestrian coaches to identify and monitor riders’ posture. The research programme is rooted in the dual necessity of enhancing rider balance and posture to improve equestrian performance while safeguarding horse health. The literature highlights the critical role of the rider’s posture in maintaining harmony within the horse-rider dyad, with improper posture potentially leading to adverse outcomes for both. Previous research highlights the importance of muscle activity, particularly within the erector spinae, in maintaining stability in sports participants. Therefore, this study seeks to identify the role of the erector spinae in posture maintenance and other related muscles within horse riding. The current gap lies in understanding how muscle activation influences asymmetry, especially across varying skill levels of riders and riding gait, and how this knowledge can be applied by coaches in training sessions.The experimental chapters of this thesis examine the relationships across rider experience, muscle activation, pressure under the saddle, riding gaits and postural control. Riders with different experience levels rode a mechanical horse at different gaits while having posture, pressure under the saddle and muscle activity recorded. Overall, the findings revealed increased postural asymmetry for novice riders resulting in increased pressure under the saddle and significant correlations between asymmetry in muscle activation and postural imbalance in the erector spinae only. Notably, there was no significant difference in the muscle activation of experienced riders compared to novices, suggesting that all riders, regardless of experience can benefit from improved understanding of asymmetry in muscle contraction in horse riders. Furthermore, a novel protocol was developed for diagnosing and monitoring rider asymmetry using accessible mobile application technology. Results comparing postural asymmetry calculated by coaches 2D video analysis and a gold standard 3D motion system found a significant correlation between both. This tool has the potential to revolutionise equestrian coaching by providing evidence-based methods to improve asymmetry, thus improving rider safety and equine welfare.
The findings of this thesis advance equestrian coaching practices by understanding muscle activation and postural control so coaches can better address asymmetry and ultimately leading to improved rider performance and reduced injury risks for both rider and horse. The conclusion emphasises the importance of adopting innovative approaches to ensure a more harmonious and effective horse-rider partnership, thereby contributing to the broader goal of enhancing equine welfare in sports.
| Date of Award | 21 Jan 2025 |
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| Original language | English |
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| Supervisor | Martina Navarro (Supervisor), Jenny Burbage (Supervisor) & Lorna Cameron (Supervisor) |