The study assumes that horses are animals whose biomechanics is profoundly modified by human influence; therefore, an analysis of motor laterality cannot rely on observational methods that are usually suitable for free-ranging animals. These considerations, together with the difficulty of obtaining objective data through in field observations, led the authors to study motor laterality of horses through a more objective parameter – i.e. the analysis of horses' natural bending at pace, trot, and canter. Horses belonging to private owners and riding-schools are significantly right footed (P<0.001). Lateralized horses can overcome the natural bending by exercising at the lunge-line by repeated transitions to slow down. Riders can facilitate or hinder the achievement of the balance, depending on their equestrian skills.[...]
Assessment of motor laterality through the analysis of natural bending
LUCIDI, Pia;
2012-01-01
Abstract
The study assumes that horses are animals whose biomechanics is profoundly modified by human influence; therefore, an analysis of motor laterality cannot rely on observational methods that are usually suitable for free-ranging animals. These considerations, together with the difficulty of obtaining objective data through in field observations, led the authors to study motor laterality of horses through a more objective parameter – i.e. the analysis of horses' natural bending at pace, trot, and canter. Horses belonging to private owners and riding-schools are significantly right footed (P<0.001). Lateralized horses can overcome the natural bending by exercising at the lunge-line by repeated transitions to slow down. Riders can facilitate or hinder the achievement of the balance, depending on their equestrian skills.[...]I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
