Factors influencing dressage performance

Optimising dressage performance is dependent on having a holistic approach to the management and preparation of horses at top level, having a rapid detection and reporting system for any problems or subtle alterations in performance. Building a relationship with riders/owners/trainers that is one of trust and not threat is important so that any alterations are reported and investigated quickly, with a long-term goal in mind. At elite level, tiny alterations in management can win or lose medals, so it is critical that these management factors are optimised and monitored as well as possible.

Training factors
• Repetitive overload injury is a major problem in dressage horses, and is one of the frequent limitations for performance.
• Core muscle development is vital to perform the required skills and provide a stable support platform for the rider and limbs, which is increasingly important with greater extravagance of movement.
• Dressage is performed at low heart rates but requires considerable muscle strength in specific muscles groups.
• A training programme requires balancing of training types: muscle strength and endurance, cardiorespiratory fitness, and skills, avoiding over-repetition of skills training.
• Use of cross training is important in prevention of lameness [1].
• Turnout exercise was not a risk factor for lameness [1].
• Importance of recovery time between training sessions.
• Planning of a training programme with respect to competitions is useful in optimising performance (e.g. avoiding glycogen depletion for important muscle groups in the last 72 h into competition) and preventing over training.  […]