The use of hyperflexion in horse sports has become increasingly common, but an equine researcher is sounding the alarm. Uta König von Borstel, PhD, a researcher at the University of Giessen in Germany, has found that riding horses behind the vertical is detrimental to their health and welfare. The physical and mental stress associated with this practice can lead to a range of negative consequences, including musculoskeletal pain, excessive rein tension, hindered eyesight, and possible airway obstruction. Studies have consistently shown that hyperflexion leads to increased stress and discomfort in horses. Researchers have found that horses ridden in hyperflexion have higher heart rates and elevated levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress. Additionally, the use of hyperflexion can lead to increased conflict behaviors and hindered vision, which can cause anxiety and fear in horses. The problem of hyperflexion extends beyond physical stress to also affect a horse’s mental well-being. A study published in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science found that horses ridden in hyperflexion showed signs of anxiety and stress. This highlights the importance of addressing the issue of hyperflexion in horse sports.

A Brief History of Hyperflexion in Horse Sports

The use of hyperflexion in horse sports dates back to the 1970s, when it became a popular technique in competitive dressage. Artistic drawings in early horsemanship books also depict horses being ridden behind the vertical, suggesting that this practice has been around for centuries. However, none of the early texts suggested that people should work their horses in this way.

1. Studies published in the 1990s and 2000s found that horses ridden in hyperflexion were more flexible and had better range of motion.
2. The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) rules suggest that dressage judges should prefer horses with their nasal plane at or in front of the vertical line.
3. The use of constant bit contact is also encouraged by FEI rules.

Evaluating the Effects of Hyperflexion on Horse Health

Researchers conducted a comprehensive review of existing studies on hyperflexion, considering factors such as stress, flexibility, and vision. They found that horses ridden in hyperflexion showed signs of stress and discomfort, regardless of their breed, age, or level of training.

Key Effects of Hyperflexion:

• Musculoskeletal pain

• Excessive rein tension

• Hinderred vision

• Possible airway obstruction

The researchers also found that the negative effects of hyperflexion were not limited to physical stress, but also extended to the mental well-being of horses.

“Our study very clearly shows that hyperflexion is bad for horse welfare, no matter what the circumstances are.” – Uta König von Borstel, PhD

Some studies suggested that even short periods in hyperflexion could lead to negative consequences for a horse’s well-being. Riders should be aware of the potential risks and take steps to minimize them.

Hyperflexion in Equestrian Competition

Studies conducted during international dressage competitions found that horses ridden in hyperflexion received better scores. However, this trend has been declining in recent years, with only 45% of horses ridden in hyperflexion in 1991. More recent studies suggest that 71% of horses ridden in hyperflexion were present in international competitions.

At advanced national levels, however, the researchers found no significant effects of hyperflexion on scores. It’s unclear why this trend is seen at different levels of competition.

Cause of Hyperflexion in Breeding Competitions:

• Rideability marks

• Natural flexibility of horses

The researchers concluded that more pronounced hyperflexion could lead to greater impacts on horse welfare.