Welcome to our Research Hub! Here, you’ll find accessible summaries of scientific studies conducted by our team, designed to make equine sport science available to everyone. Each summary offers an easy-to-read overview of key findings and insights. For those interested in diving deeper, links to the full published articles are provided. Explore the latest research behind our methods and discover how scientific advancements can benefit you and your horse.

Young Friesian horses show familial aggregation in fitness response to a 7-week performance test
The study investigates the fitness response of young Friesian horses to a 7-week standardized performance test, exploring familial links in training responses and fitness improvements.

A prospective study on a cohort of horses and ponies selected for participation in the European Eventing Championship: reasons for withdrawal and predictive value of fitness tests
The study examined the relationship between fitness levels and injury risks in Dutch event horses and ponies training for the European Championships.

Exercise testing in Warmblood sport horses under field conditions
Exercise testing is crucial for assessing Warmblood sport horses’ fitness and readiness for competition. This review highlights the need for standardized tests across disciplines to accurately evaluate performance and injury risk.

A prospective cohort study on the acute:chronic workload ratio in relation to injuries in high level eventing horses: A comprehensive 3-year study
Monitoring training loads in horses is crucial for performance and injury prevention. This study examined workload impacts in elite eventers.

Evaluation of three portable lactate-measurement devices in exercising horses
Measuring plasma lactate is essential for evaluating horse fitness. This research tested new handheld devices to find practical alternatives.

A Non-Invasive Approach to Estimate Lactate Based on Data from Wearable Sensors
Fatigue management in horses is essential for performance and welfare. This research examines non-invasive sensors to estimate lactate levels and monitor fatigue in sport horses.

Effects of Pre-Cooling on Thermophysiological Responses in Elite Eventing Horses
This study explored the effects of pre-cooling on eventing horses’ heart rates, temperatures, and sweat loss during exercise, aiming to improve performance and welfare in heat.

The influence of challenging objects and horse-rider matching on heart rate, heart rate variability and behavioural score in riding horses
Effective horse-rider matches enhance welfare and performance, reducing stress for both. This study assessed the impact of pairing and challenge exposure on horse stress, using heart rate, heart rate variability, and behavior scores.

Physiological and behavioral responses of horses during police training
Police horses’ physiological and behavioral responses to training were studied, focusing on stress indicators.