ASC202 Equine Locomotion (8)

This subject examines the biomechanics of equine locomotion using the latest evidence-based research and draws on students existing knowledge of equine anatomy and physiology. Throughout this subject students will develop and practice the fundamentals of gait assessment, rider analysis, saddle fit and equine podiatry. On successfully completing this subject students will possess the theoretical and practical skills that the 21st Century horse manager requires to optimise the performance of their equine athletes whilst preserving the horse's soundness and athletic longevity.

Availability

* Offering has a residential school. Please view following information for further details.

Session 1 (30)
On Campus
Wagga Wagga Campus
Online *
Wagga Wagga Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: ASC202. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences

Enrolment Restrictions

Enrolment is restricted to Bachelor of Equine Science, Bachelor of Equine Science (Business Management), Bachelor of Animal Science and Bachelor of Animal Science (Honours) students.  Other students may be considered at the discretion of the Subject Coordinator and appropriate Course Director.

Prerequisites

ASC171 and ( ASC206 or ASC106 or ASC148 )

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to assess and analyse normal equine movement anatomically, biomechanically and physiologically;
  • be able to deconstruct and analyse abnormal equine movement anatomically, biomechanically and physiologically;
  • be able to identify and analyse the anatomical, management and environmental factors that impact on equine biomechanics in terms of performance and injury risk; and
  • be able to apply biomechanical analysis to improve biomechanical interactions between horse, rider and equipment.
  • be able to assess a range of influences on equine locomotion using qualitative and quantitative methods as appropriate

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • Theory and application of biomechanical principles with special reference to equine locomotion and equine biomechanics.
  • Biomechanical anatomy and physiology of the equine distal limb, hoof, proximal forelimb and hindlimb, head, neck and back.
  • The gaits of the horse and gait analysis.
  • Biomechanics of equine lameness.
  • Transitions, turns and jumping in the equid.
  • Impact of working surfaces on horse biomechanics.
  • Biomechanics of the horse/rider dyad, saddles and other equipment.
  • Equine podiatry.

Indicative Assessment

The following table summarises the assessment tasks for the online offering of ASC202 in Session 1 2021. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated and can also differ to suit the mode of study (online or on campus).

Item Number
Title
Value %
1
Practical preparation
10
2
Equine structure and function report
25
3
Saddle fit video
25
4
Final exam
40

Residential School

This subject contains a 3 day Compulsory Residential School.

The Residential School comprises a mixture of tutorials and laboratory dissection classes as well as conformation assessment in live horses. During the Residential School students will engage in live assessments of motion in horses and have the opportunity to put previously received theory into practice within a controlled and supportive environment.

Special Resources

Online students will be required to attend a Residential School and may incur travel and accommodation costs.

Closed-in stout leather shoes or boots must be worn when working with horses. Clean overalls with long sleeves are compulsory for this subject. When working with horses it is a requirement that all students wear an Australian Standards approved hard hat AS 3838. You may also use helmets considered acceptable by Equestrian Australia  these include NZ 3838, ARB HS 2012, ASTM F1163, PAS 015 and VG01.040.

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: May 2022. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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