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First published online September 15, 2004
Journal of Experimental Biology 207, 3639-3648 (2004)
Published by The Company of Biologists 2004
doi: 10.1242/jeb.01182

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Determination of peak vertical ground reaction force from duty factor in the horse (Equus caballus)

T. H. Witte¹, K. Knill¹ and A. M. Wilson^1,2,*

¹ Structure and Motion Lab, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA, UK
² Structure and Motion Lab, University College London, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Brockley Hill, Stanmore, Middlesex, HA7 4LP, UK

^* Author for correspondence (e-mail: awilson{at}rvc.ac.uk)

Accepted 13 July 2004

Measurement of peak vertical ground reaction force (GRFz) from multiple limbs simultaneously during high-speed, over-ground locomotion would enhance our understanding of the locomotor mechanics of cursorial animals. Here, we evaluate the accuracy of predicting peak GRFz from duty factor (the proportion of the stride for which the limb is in contact with the ground). Foot-mounted uniaxial accelerometers, combined with UHF FM telemetry, are shown to be practical and accurate for the field measurement of stride timing variables, including duty factor. Direct comparison with the force plate produces a mean error of 2.3 ms and 3.5 ms for the timing of foot on and foot off, respectively, across all gaits. Predictions of peak GRFz from duty factor show mean errors (with positive values indicating an overestimate) of 0.8±0.04 N kg^–1 (13%; N=42; mean ± S.E.M.) at walk, –0.3±0.06 N kg^–1 (3%; N=75) at trot, –2.3±0.27 N kg^–1 (16%; N=18) for the non-lead limb at canter and +2.1±0.7 N kg^–1 (19%; N=9) for the lead limb at canter. The substantial over- and underestimate seen at canter, in the lead and non-lead limbs, respectively, is attributed to the different functions performed by the two limbs in the asymmetrical gaits. The difference in load experienced by the lead and non-lead limbs decreased with increasing speed.

Key words: ground reaction force, field locomotion, accelerometer, duty factor, horse

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