Speed

Question 1

During a gallop the head is at its highest just before the leading forelimb leaves the ground. How does this help advance the forelimb?

Answer 1

Stretching –> MSC –> brachiocephalic –> eccentric b/f concentric contraction –> bring front leg forward

Question 2

Where is the center of rotation of the hind limb at a trot? At a gallop? How does this affect stride length?

Answer 2

Trot – coxofemoral joint

Gallop – Lumbosacral joint

Stride length – lengthens cause an increase in speed

Question 3

What are four things that improve the efficiency of gait?

Answer 3

1. Weight of limb section - Weight in the distal limb decreases efficiency
2. Distribution of weight in the limb – bulk of muscle mass is in the proximal limb
3. Folding of the limb – one of the main energy expenditures is the cycling of the limb
4. Elastic energy storage – first half of stance stretches the tendons and ligaments to store energy. As body mass passes over the limb, the elastic tissues recoil to release stored energy and help raise the limb.

Question 4

When do most injuries occur during a race?

Answer 4

• On the turns
• After a lead change
• After physical interaction with another horse
• With stumbling

Question 5

How does speed affect the flexion/extension of the LS joint

Answer 5

Because LS junction is center or rotation, F/E here is important component of speed.

Question 6

Which type of race horse, Standardbred or Thoroughbreds, have the most flexion/extension of the LS joint during a race? Which has the most rotation?

Answer 6

Rotation – STB

F/E LS - TB