PHYSICAL POWER, TECHNICAL AND AESTHETIC EXECUTION QUALITIES IN DRESSAGE RIDING -A PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATION

Abstract

The current study examined the anthropometric and physical performance qualities of Dressage riders both off and on the horse. Each rider (n = 10) completed an Intermediate competition test on their own horse, and a 10 min strange horse test where they were asked to work the horse through extended and collected gaits. Both tests were graded by two Grade A trainers using four observation categories. All tests were filmed using a 50 Hz camera to obtain a qualitative assessment of the riders' posture during each of the gaits, and a measure of the collected trot and canter velocities during the strange horse test. The riders also had their anthropometric measurements taken and completed strength and power tests. The key qualities that indicated Dressage riding aptitude were a lower brachial index, high concentric leg strength, and reduced tricep strength.