Kinematic characteristics of Andalusian, Arabian and Anglo-Arabian horses:a comparative study

The aim of this study was to compare the kinematic trot characteristics of three different breeds of horse: Andalusian (AN, n = 15), Arabian (AR. n = 7) and Anglo-Arabian (AA. n = 5) using standard computer-assisted videograp hy (25 Hz). Linear, temporal and angular parameters in fore- and hind limbs were analysed in six randomly selected strides per horse. Normalised angle -time diagrams along the complete stride were obtained for all joints angle s in each breed and specific kinematic characteristics were detected graphi cally. AA horses displayed longer swing durations in both limbs ans a short er angular range of motion (ARM) in scapula and pelvis inclination and in s houlder, hip and forelimb retraction-protraction angles. At lift off, stifl e and tarsal joint angles were more flexed. In general, only small differen ces were observed in AR horse kinematics when compared with the other 2 bre eds. AN horses presented negative overtracking length, which was positive i n AR and AA. In AN horses the elbow and carpal joints were more flexed at t he moment of maximal elevation, elbow and fore-fetlock joints also exhibite d a larger ARM due to a smaller angle at maximal flexion. In the hind limbs , tarsal, hind fetlock and retraction-protract ion angles presented a large r ARM in AN horses due to greater maximal flexion in the tarsal and hind fe tlock joints. Fore- and hind fetlocks were also more flexed in horses from this breed. In conclusion, differences between kinematic variables at the t rot were observed in the three breeds studied here. mainly in forelimb join ts. The most outstanding feature was the greater forelimb flexion recorded in AN horses than in the other breeds which is consistent with the elevated movements in this breed. In A horses, the ARM of proximal joints involved in retraction-protraction in both fore- and hind limbs was smaller. All the differences observed highlighted the idiosyncratic nature of the trot in e ach breed: this may influence the functional capacity of each breed. (C) 20 01 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.