Description
Heart Rate Sensor — horse heart rate monitoring sensor
The kit includes a strap for fastening and a heart rate sensor
Heart Rate Sensor is a device designed to measure a horse’s heart rate (HR) in real time, enabling objective evaluation of workload, recovery, and overall physiological condition during training.
The sensor complements the HorseCare system by providing not only movement data, but also an understanding of the physiological cost at which performance is achieved.
What the sensor measures
Why it matters
Heart rate is one of the key indicators of a horse’s condition for evaluating training dynamics.
Using the sensor allows you to:
- monitor the actual physiological load on the body
- track fitness level
- properly structure the training process
- identify signs of overload
- reduce the risk of injuries and fatigue
- make decisions based on data rather than subjective ощущения
How it works
Unlike conventional solutions, this sensor is attached at the base of the horse’s tail, providing an alternative method of collecting physiological data.
Unlike electrode-based heart rate monitors, the optical heart rate sensor measures changes in blood volume within the capillary bed during each heartbeat (systole).
The sensor is specifically optimized for heart rate monitoring during exercise, when this information is most valuable for evaluating workload, fitness, and recovery.
Why can heart rate be less accurate at rest?
When a horse is standing quietly, its heart rate is typically 35–40 bpm. At this stage:
- the pulse wave is relatively weak;
- peripheral capillaries are less dilated;
- individual factors such as skin pigmentation beneath the tail may reduce the optical signal.
As a result, heart rate detection may be less reliable while the horse is at rest.
Why does it perform accurately during exercise?
As the horse begins to work and heart rate rises to approximately 65–70 bpm or higher:
- each heartbeat generates a stronger pulse wave;
- blood vessels dilate and peripheral circulation increases;
- the optical signal becomes clear and stable.
This allows the optical sensor to provide reliable heart rate measurements throughout training and endurance riding.
Important: The optical heart rate sensor was designed for monitoring horses during active work, where accurate heart rate data is most valuable for assessing exercise intensity, conditioning, and recovery, rather than for continuous monitoring while the horse is standing in the stable.
Benefits
✔ Internal load monitoring
✔ Recovery assessment
✔ Enhancement of movement analysis
✔ Improved training efficiency
✔ More accurate understanding of the horse’s condition
⚠️ Usage specifics and compatibility
The HorseCare system is technically capable of receiving data from any heart rate sensors (HR) that support appropriate signal transmission.
At present, we use and can supply third-party heart rate sensors adapted for use with the HorseCare system.
It is important to consider that:
- these sensors were not originally developed as part of the HorseCare system
- their use may involve certain inconveniences in installation and operation
- there may be specific limitations in stability and data transmission
It should also be understood that: the interpretation and accuracy of data obtained from third-party sensors depend on the device itself and are beyond our control. We cannot guarantee absolute accuracy or medical-grade precision of the measurements.
Who it is for
- Athletes and trainers
- Advanced HorseCare users
- Those who want maximum insight into their horse’s condition
- Users willing to work with experimental solutions
Compatibility
⚠️ A complete HorseCare sensor kit is required before this sensor can be used.
The sensor is designed to complement data collected by the HorseCare motion analysis system and is not intended for standalone operation.
Summary
Heart Rate Sensor is the next level of analysis.
It allows you to understand not only how the horse moves, but also how its body responds to that movement.
In this video, we show how to install, connect, and use the Heart Rate Sensor with the HorseCare system.
📋 Before using HorseCare sensors, please review the subscription