Analysis of equine gait using three‐dimensional accelerometers fixed on the saddle

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Abstract
Summary: The aim of this study was to give riding teachers, physiotherapists and research workers a better understanding of the three‐dimensional movement of the horse's saddle. The gaits of 7 horses were recorded on the treadmill by an accelerometric crown fixed to the front of a saddle. After a Fourier analysis of the signal, noise was eliminated; after a double integration data were obtained describing the crown's movement, assuming that after each stride the saddle returns to the original place. The movement was visualised in two and three dimensions. The walk showed more twisting motions, whereas the trot had more rolling, longitudinal and lateral movement. The canter showed the highest amplitude of motion, with a strong pitching rotation but little twisting. The pitching movement was the most important type of rotation for the three gaits. The speed at the canter did not influence the shape of the movement patterns.