Locomotor, cardiocirculatory and metabolic adaptations to training in Andalusian and Anglo-Arabian horses

The effects of two training programmes in 20 Andalusian and 12 Anglo-Arabia n horses were evaluated by an increasing intensity work test at velocities of 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 m sec(-1). Heart rate was monitored and blood samples w ere drawn at rest and after each velocity to analyse packed cell volume, ha emoglobin concentration, plasma lactate and potassium levels. Furthermore, the programmes were video-taped and stride length, duration and frequency, stance (restraint and propulsion), swing phase durations and stride vertica l component were measured. The training protocol of the Andalusian horses p roduced significant decreases in the cardiovascular, haematological and met abolic responses to exercise. Locomotory training adaptation consisted of a n increased stride frequency and a reduced stride length and vertical strid e component. The last variable was the limiting factor of stride length bot h before and after training in the Andalusian horses. A different training protocol for show-jumping competition in Anglo-Arabian horses failed to sho w significant differences in the studied parameters to the work test, altho ugh an increase in stride length at velocities of over 6 m sec(-1) was obse rved. Stride vertical component did not have an effect on the physiological response to exercise, either before or after training.