EFFECTS OF SUBJECT VELOCITY ON FORCE PLATE-MEASURED GROUND REACTION FORCES IN HEALTHY GREYHOUNDS AT THE TROT

Force plate gait analysis was used to study the effects of subject vel ocity on ground reaction forces. Seven adult Greyhounds were trotted a t 3 distinct velocities: 1.5 to 1.8 m/s, 2.1 to 2.4 m/s, and 2.7 to 3. 0 m/s. Forelimb and hind limb peak vertical forces increased with incr ease in velocity (P < 0.05). Forelimb and hind limb vertical impulses decreased as velocity increased (P < 0.05). Significant variations wer e not observed for craniocaudal or mediolateral peak forces or impulse s. It was concluded that velocity significantly (P < 0.05) influenced ground reaction forces and impulses, and must be controlled in experim ental design.