Kinematics of gaits in Bardigiano horses

AbstractSelection of horses for inclusion in breed registers and for approval as breeding stock is usually based on the opinion of judges. However qualitative gait analysis based on the judgement of an observer carries all the risks inherent in subjectivity. Video-based kinematic analysis quantifies the features of gait: the output is in the form of temporal (timing), linear (distance) and angular measurements describing the movements of the body segments and joint angles. The data are displayed graphically. Kinematic characteristics of locomotion in several horse breeds have been studied. In this preliminary trial an Italian breed in field conditions was considered, with the aim to find a scientific, objective method for gait evaluation during performance test. Gaits represent a challenge for the Bardigiano Stud Book technicians, because the breed selection goal changed recently from work, draft type to saddle horse. 14 retro-reflective, hemispheric markers, diameter 2.5cm, were glued to palpable, anatom...