Unlock the full potential of your horses with expert analysis for racehorse training and performance data from wearable technology. Tailor strategies, enhance performance, and promote welfare with insights designed to make every stride count.
Wearable Technology
Benefits of Wearable Technology for Training & Performance
Thanks to advances in equine wearable technology, such as the Equimetre® and E-Trakka® devices, we can now track horses’ training data with unprecedented precision. Expert analysis of this data provides unique insights into individual horses’ performance, allowing tailored training and racing strategies to enhance welfare and optimise performance.
Types of Analysis Offered
Daily Analysis
We provide a daily analysis that summarises the exercise recorded for each horse wearing the device. This provides a quick snapshot evaluation of the exercise, highlighting key parameters and insights into the training. We report daily analyses individually for each horse and communicate them directly to the trainer via email or message. This enables trainers to adjust daily training plans based on data-driven insights.
Longitudinal Analysis
A longitudinal analysis offers a longer-term assessment of an individual horse’s response to training and progress over time by comparing three or more similar training sessions. We create a short report featuring graphical depictions of key parameter trends and concise descriptions. This allows trainers to identify patterns and make informed decisions about a horse’s fitness and performance.
Stable Wide Analysis
A stable wide analysis provides a comprehensive overview of all horses in the yard. It enables comparisons between horses to identify top performers and those whose fitness and recovery parameters may need improvement. This summary supports a tailored approach to yard management and strategic planning.
Bespoke Training Data Packages
We tailor bespoke packages to suit your needs, complementing the above services. Contact us below for more information.
Key Parameters
A wide range of variables are recorded by the wearable technology. Let’s dive into what some of these parameters mean and how they can help.
Maximum Speed
The top speed achieved during a session offers valuable insights into a horse’s sprinting capability and readiness for race day.
Working Distance
The systems measure and analyse the total distance each horse covers during an exercise session.
Stride Length & Frequency
These are key indicators of a horse’s locomotor profile, which can assist in determining race suitability and acceleration strategies.
Peak Heart Rate
Each horse’s highest heart rate, typically ranging from 180 to 240 bpm, is recorded during exercise. Although it is not directly insightful on its own, this measurement is crucial for calculating heart rate zones and assessing fitness and recovery.
Heart Rate Zones
The heart rate response during exercise is divided into different zones according to intensity and subsequent training effect:
Zone 1: Endurance (<60% HRmax): Low effort trot/canter exercise
Zone 2: Moderate (60-70% HRmax): Strength training
Zone 3: Tempo (70-80% HRmax): Aerobic training improving oxygen utilisation
Zone 4: Threshold (80-90% HRmax): Hard exercise to enhance lactate tolerance
Zone 5: Anaerobic (>90% HRmax): Intense exercise improving sprint speed
Recovery
Fast Recovery reflects session intensity and expresses it as a percentage of maximal heart rate. A value of 55% or less signifies a good exercise intensity.
Slow Recovery reflects overall fitness and recovery ability. A value of 45% or less is indicative of good recovery and fitness.
Graphs
Graphs simplify complex data, allowing trainers to asses fitness, performance, and potential concerns visually.
Heart Rate & Speed: Normally, these correlate directly. Mismatches or ‘greyed-out’ heart rate graphs may indicate a sensor issue or a potential problem requiring further investigation.
Stride Length & Frequency: These graphs provide insights into a horse’s locomotor and acceleration strategies.
Symmetry & Regularity
These parameters are recorded during trotting exercises at the start of sessions to provide insights into a horse’s soundness and efficiency. Regular monitoring can detect early signs of lameness, supporting proactive management and reducing the risk of injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should wearable technology be used?
Consequently, the use of wearable technology is most effective during intense training sessions, providing insights into fitness and recovery. Comparing sessions of similar speed and intensity offers the most meaningful information. Additionally, the final piece of fast work before a race serves as a useful reference point for future training assessments.
Which horses should I use the device on?
Any horse can wear the device. However, it is especially beneficial for horses under performance scrutiny or completing fast work before a race.
When should the training data be analysed?
An expert data analyst should review each training session to maximise the insights gained.
How can expert training data analysis enhance my performance outcomes?
An expert data analyst provides objective, in-depth reviews of the data and offers an informed external perspective. This helps you fully utilise the wearable technology and optimise performance.
Does this information replace normal training practices?
No. Wearable technology complements traditional expertise, providing additional data to enhance decision-making and optimise horse welfare and performance.
How does wearable technology help prevent injuries?
Wearable technology tracks changes in locomotor profiles and heart rate responses over time. These objective metrics can flag potential risks, helping identify horses that would benefit from veterinary examination.
Ready to Take Your Training to the Next Level?
Contact us today to find out how expert analysis for racehorses training and performance data can transform your yard.