Towards an evidence-based classification system for Para dressage: associations between impairment and performance measures

This study follows a previously defined framework to investigate the impact of impairment on performance in Para dressage athletes. Twenty-one, elite Para dressage athletes (grades I to V) and eleven non-disabled dressage athletes (competing at Prix St. Georges or Grand Prix) participated. Data were collected in two phases; performing a two-minute custom dressage test on a riding simulator while kinematic data were synchronously collected using inertial measurement units (2000 Hz) and optical motion capture (100 Hz), and clinically assessed using a battery of impairment assessment tools, administered by qualified therapists. Impairment and performance measures were compared between Para and non-disabled athletes. Significant differences between athlete groups were found for all impairment measures and two performance measures: simulator trunk harmonics (p=0.027) and athlete trunk dynamic symmetry (p