Our sources
We study the biomechanics of how horses and riders move, and we are now moving on to real-life testing. These are the main published studies we draw on.
How horses really move in collection
Looked at how highly trained horses balance themselves in passage. How far the hind legs swing forward and back was linked to how strongly they push and how they control the tilt of their body.
Studied the mechanics of the diagonal gaits, from piaffe and passage through to extended trot, across a range of speeds. This is core data for our paces and our 3D movement guide.
Measured the forces through each leg in piaffe in Lusitanos and Dutch Warmbloods, and how the load is shared between the front and hind legs.
Body and movement measurements from Lipizzaner horses, compared by the work they do. Part of the breed-by-breed data we use to set realistic paces.
What head and neck position does to the horse
A review of 58 studies: three in four studies of welfare raised concerns about riding with the nose behind the vertical. It also found that competition scoring tends not to mark it down at the top level, even though the rules say it should.
In high-level dressage and show-jumping horses, bending the head 15 degrees more narrowed the airway at the throat and increased signs of conflict.
Applied the Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram, a list of 24 behaviours that can signal pain under saddle, to horses at competitions. We use it to teach riders what a comfortable horse looks like.
The rider's part
How high-level riders' pelvis and back movement changes with the degree of collection in trot.
Compared sensor measurements of horse and rider in high-level pairs with the judges' general impression marks. How the rider sits shows up on the score sheet.
Where the sport is heading
The FEI's own rules describe the goal as "a happy athlete". In 2023 its Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission reported that public trust in horse sport depends on putting welfare first, and the FEI is now reviewing how harmony is scored. We're building CENTERLINE for that future.
How we use it, and what we don't claim
- Studies shape our tips, our paces and our 3D movement guide. Where a study only measured one breed, we say so and don't stretch it to every horse.
- Our test reports are in private testing. We won't publish any accuracy figure until it's been measured on real rides the software has never seen, and we'll explain how we measured it.
- We never name or criticise individual judges or riders. We talk about what the studies show, not about people.
- CENTERLINE is a learning tool, not veterinary advice. If you think your horse is sore, talk to your vet.
Spotted an error, or know a study we should read? Tell us.