Is Subjective Grading of Jumping Technique Related to Measurable Kinematic Parameters During Flight?

Abstract

IntroductionThere has been limited evaluation of biomechanical parameters during flight and their relationship to subjective assessments of jumping technique in ridden show‐jumping horses.MethodsTen mixed breed horses (9.1 ± 1.9 yrs) were assessed at a British Equestrian Federation (BEF) World Class Performance three day training session. Riders received coaching during warm‐up and after jumping a 15‐fence (1.35–1.45 m) course once on day one and twice on day two; the second round on day 3 was an 8‐fence jump‐off. Two‐dimensional high‐speed motion‐capture (250 Hz) was used to determine limb and back angles at 25%, 50% and 75% of the flight phase over four fences using markers placed at pre‐determined locations. Technique grades (1–10) were assigned per fence by an international coach. Technique grades and kinematics were correlated using a Spearman's rank correlation test.ResultsForelimb and hindlimb take‐off distance and technique grade (4–7/10) were positively correlated (r = 0.29, 0.27, P≤0.01). Thoracolumbar angle (range 178–184°) at 25% and 75% of flight and neck/trunk angle (NT) at 50% and 75% of flight were negatively correlated with technique grade (r = ‐0.20 {P = 0.04}, ‐0.20 {P = 0.03}, ‐0.21 {P = 0.03}, and −0.28 {P<0.01} respectively).ConclusionsOnly weak correlations were evident, however, the findings suggest that increased take‐off distance may be desirable for improvements in subjectively evaluated technique. The relationship between TL extension and improved technique grades may be explained by improved back stabilisation. Decreased NT and TL extension at 75% flight could suggest that back stabilisation and raising the neck in preparation for landing are associated with better jumping technique. Subjective grading of jumping technique appears to be influenced by kinematic features during flight.Ethical Animal ResearchThe Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons confirmed that the procedures carried out were not Controlled Procedures under UK animal experimentation legislation. Explicit owner informed consent for participation in this study is not stated. Sources of funding: The World Class Development Programme is funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, through Exchequer and National Lottery funds, via UK Sport. Competing interests: none.