Animals· 2026Q1
Teaching Direction Control in Horse Riding: A Pre–Post Intervention Proof-of-Concept Study Using Multi-Modal Motor Learning Techniques
- 0citations
- Q1SCImago
- 2026year
Short summary
The Four-Step Riding Programme (FSRP) using multi-modal motor learning techniques improved rider-horse direction control, evidenced by a 5-point Likert scale improvement across all assessors and participants (p < 0.05) and enhanced horse shoulder control.
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Key points
- The Four-Step Riding Programme (FSRP) was tested using multi-modal motor learning techniques to improve rider-horse direction control.
- Rider and horse performance was assessed using video recordings, a 5-point Likert scale, and electronic sensors measuring horse stride parameters.
- Significant improvements in direction control and horse shoulder control were observed after the intervention (p < 0.05).
- The study involved five rider-horse dyads over four one-hour lessons.
AI-generated from the title and abstract; the full text is not read.
Abstract
Many riders experience persistent communication problems with their horses, particularly in controlling speed and direction, despite extensive training. This proof-of-concept study employed a pre-test–post-test intervention design to examine the effectiveness of the Four-Step Riding Programme (FSRP) in developing clear rider–horse body language for direction control. Multi-modal motor learning techniques (MMLTs) were applied to five rider–horse dyads during four one-hour lessons to teach coordinated movement patterns necessary for directional accuracy. Rider–horse communication was evaluated before and after the intervention using video recordings of 13 riding exercises. Three independent assessors rated the performances on a 5-point Likert scale, and riders provided self-assessments on the same scale. Horse stride parameters, reflecting shoulder control, were visualised with the Alogo™ Move Pro electronic sensor. Significant improvements were observed between pre- and post-intervention scores across all assessors and participants (p < 0.05). These preliminary findings suggest that the FSRP holds promise for facilitating the acquisition of rider–horse body language necessary for precise direction control.
The authors' abstract, as published at the source. Animals, 2026 · DOI ↗
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