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Polar Horse
Heart Rate Monitor
Accuracy and Validation Studies
Delphine
L.M. Holopherne1, David R. Hodgson, Reuben J. Rose and Anne
Couroucé
Equine Performance Laboratory, University of Sydney, Camden NSW
2570, Australia ; Pégase-Mayenne, département de Médecine du
Sport, CH de Laval, 53015 Laval Cédex, France.
Introduction
Heart
rate (HR) is a major variable frequently determined when
evaluating athletic horses exercising on the track or treadmill
(Foreman et al., 1990 ; Rose and Hodgson, 1994 ; Couroucé,
1999). Therefore, a reliable means of measurement of HR is of
great importance.
Results
There
was a highly significant correlation (p<0.001) between the
Polar HRM and the telemetric ECG determination of HR (r = 0.995
; n = 233 - Fig. 5). When HRs below and above 200 bpm were
considered separately, the correlation coefficient was lower for
HRs greater than 200 bpm, with the Polar HRM giving slightly
higher values when compared to the ECG.
Conclusion
The
Polar HR meter provides a non-invasive and convenient means of
assessing HR during exercise, with improved accuracy at HRs
below 200 bpm. This device can be used effectively on horses
exercising on the treadmill, track, when being ridden or in
harness.
Availability
of such a reliable device is important, as measurement of HR
during sub maximal exercise is one of the mainstays for
assessment of fitness (Persson, 1983 ; Couroucé, 1999), work
load evaluation and detection of subclinical disease that may
impair perfomance (Couroucé et al., 1986 ; Erickson et al.,
1987).
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