Quantifying show jumping horse rider expertise using IMUs

Presented at the 32nd Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society "Merging Medical Humanism and Technology", August 31 2010-September 4 2010, Buenos Aires, ArgentinaHorse rider ability has long been measured using horse performance, competition results and visual observation. Scientific methods of measuring rider ability on the flat are emerging such as measuring position angles and harmony of the horse-rider system. To date no research has quantified rider ability in show jumping. Kinematic analysis and motion sensors have been used in sports other than show jumping to measure the quality of motor control patterns in humans. The aim of this study was to quantify rider ability in show jumping using body-mounted IMUs. Preliminary results indicate that there are clear differences in experienced and novice riders during show jumping.Science Foundation IrelandConference websitehttp://embc2010.embs.org