Figure 1, Horse-Rider Partnership Research Study in Association with Loughborough University
In October 2024, Tracy Bye, Senior Lecturer in Animal Science and Programme Leader FdSc Equine Management, undertook a research study in association with staff from Loughborough University School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, as part of her PhD research.
A system of 16 3D motion capture cameras were set up to track the movement of horses and riders passing through a runway. Riders were of three different experience levels, and they were all fitted with a set of motion capture markers which allowed staff to track their movement and measure their posture and balance.
The data will be analysed to determine what strategies the higher-level riders were using to balance themselves effectively on the horse, with the aim of providing guidance for inexperienced riders and their coaches to improve horse-rider partnerships at the grassroots level of equestrian sport.