Hartpury University Undergraduate Prospectus 2020

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Our Racewood Eventing Simulator uses state- of-the-art technology and is one of the most advanced in an education setting

We’ve been putting riding equipment under the spotlight. With a grant from the British Horse Foundation, our equine research specialists have found improvements to saddle fitting techniques, which have already been adopted by professional saddle fitters within the industry. Whip use in equestrian sport questioned. Our research-active lecturers have been investigating whether whips are being used for the right purpose, and in the right way, to maximise horse welfare and performance within equestrian sport. Experts might not be using water treadmills correctly. Our lecturers have raised concerns around inappropriate use of water treadmills in equine training, following their new research with the Animal Health Trust. More research is needed to inform vets and owners on effective use. Horse riders overestimate their equine knowledge. In the first study in this area, our equine lecturers have found that riders are potentially putting themselves and their horses at risk of injury, by believing that their ability and competence is better than it is. Here are some of the ways our students and staff are blazing the trail for equine health, welfare and performance.