RIDERS who are too heavy for their mounts can cause temporary lameness, which could become a permanent issue in the long term.
The latest results of a study led by the Animal Health Trust (AHT) last September show that a high ratio of horse-to-rider weight has a “substantial” negative effect.The study involved six horses, each ridden by four riders of different weights. And although all six finished it moving at least as well as at the start, all the tests involving the two heaviest riders had to be abandoned, mainly owing to the temporary lameness.
The results were to be announced by Dr Sue Dyson, AHT head of clinical orthopaedics, who led the study, at the National Equine Forum today (8 March).
“I had expected this, based on previous clinical observations,” said Dr Dyson. “I have seen many horses ridden sequentially by people of very different weights and seen an immediate change in the way the horses moved. I have evidence of horses in full work with no underlying clinical problem showing lameness when ridden by a heavy rider. Horses with low-grade lameness when ridden by a light rider may show much more obvious lameness when ridden by a heavier rider.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
'Sorry, but I wasn't feeling it'
Fresh from the opening meet, Tessa Waugh hasn't quite yet been bitten by the hunting bug. Without the crisp autumnal air and cheek-pinching cold she hoped for, it's a sluggish start
New pair pull off a win
A former European Championships pony is on form with his new rider, while elsewhere former showjumpers and eventers take ribbons
Lording it over the rest
Horses who have returned from injury, a second generation homebred and a long format specialist score on the final weekend of the British season
Smith hits flying form
A \"her way or no way\" mare helps Zoe Smith to an impressive ribbon haul and a rider beats his own boss to the top spot
Jankorado hits the jackpot
Paul Sims is triumphant despite his interrupted jump-off preparation and a borrowed horse comes up trumps
Peanut
From \"dangerous, scary\" to hedge-hopping brilliance, hunting has been the making of this unstable but very lovable equine character
She's a corker
Communication, says long-standing and highly respected Belvoir master Lady Sarah McCorquodale, is the key to all, as Catherine Austen discovers
Access all areas Cavalier Centre
The Cavalier Centre is a fully accessible, state-of-the-art equestrian centre designed to improve lives through horse-based activities. Ellie May Forrester pays a visit
'Use it or lose it'
Not everyone wants to reach for the pipe and slippers at a certain age. Becky Murray speaks to some veteran horse-and-rider combos for their secrets of human and equine longevity
A new way forward
Worm control in horses is vital, but established methods will not remain effective for much longer. Tim Mair FRCVS explains why and how we need to change
