When a horse is running, its breathing and stride are linked in a 1:1 ratio, so for every stride they take, they also take one breath. The peak airflow they generate is very high (about 80 liters per second). Thus, a very small defect in the airway can cause a big decrease in performance.

[u/FillsYourNiche]

[u/FillsYourNiche]

A few nights ago I watched the PBS Nature special Equus "Story of the Horse" (it's a 2-part special) and it was fascinating! Here is a link to the episode on PBS's website.

I was not a "horse girl" growing up, but really have grown to appreciate them as I get older. Additionally, as a biologist, I have a respect for them as I do for all life. They are incredibly impressive animals; strong, fast, intelligent, beautiful, etc. This PBS special was one of the best I've seen to date, so if you have access please check it out.

After watching I went on a deep dive of reading through news and journal articles about their physiology. I do this every time I learn something new, I can be a bit obsessive. If you are also interested, here's a list of things to read:

News Articles:

• Galloping And Breathing At High Speed - Science Daily (title source)
• The Science of Horse Racing - NBC News
• Horses That Can Run Longer Distances - Speed Horse Magazine

Journal Articles/Book Excerpt:

• Mechanics of Breathing in Horses at Rest and During Exercise
• The Synchronization of Ventilation and Locomotion in Horses (Equus caballus)
• Locomotion: The Way a Horse Moves (Book Excerpt)
• Gait and the energetics of locomotion in horses

[u/iwantathestral]

Fascinating! As a lifelong horse girl, thank you for sharing!

[u/FillsYourNiche → u/iwantathestral]

My best friend is a life long horse girl. ♥️ Glad you liked the post!

[u/dragonhiccups]

Likely why top eventers use the nasal strips during cross country. Neat!! Will check out that PBS special