Wearable technology use is growing in the equine world, and many owners have started using portable monitors to improve their horse’s welfare but also track their horse’s fitness journey. Unfortunately, the majority of these have not undergone scientific validation and therefore the data collected can be misleading in making decision about the horse’s fitness parameters. It is crucial to critically review validation data available for these devices prior to recommending or advising on their use, especially heart rate monitors and accelerometers as reliance on inaccurate data may be detrimental to the horse. However, validated monitors have an important role in the improvement of fitness programs tailored to each individual and in the prevention of catastrophic injuries in the sport horse, making them extremely valuable when interpreted appropriately. Helping clients understand the use and the limitations of these devices in assessing fitness is key to help optimizing training progress. The prophylactic properties of heart rate and accelerometers data should be integrated in the equine performance world, by helping prolong horses’ athletic careers but also from the welfare implications regarding safe animal use in sport disciplines.
-Evidence-based monitors and readily available validation data are the most important things to look for before advising owners on wearable monitors
-Fitness tracking with heart rate and accelerometer monitor relies on a continuous assessment, and evaluation of progress. No information on the fitness status of a horse can be obtained from a single set of measurements
Chairperson
Victoria South, RCVS and European recognised Specialist in Equine Internal Medicine - University of Cambridge Dept Veterinary Medicine
Speakers
Julie Potier, European Specialist in Equine Internal Medicine - Liphook Equine Hospital
In Equine & Farm Clinical Theatre on 12 June at 10:35 - 11:25
Presented at BVA LIVE 2025
Please note this session is not RACE-approved but you can still earn a CPD certificate