The athletic horse: respiratory system

21 September 2021
Logo

In the past two articles, we have looked at the extraordinary size and function of the horse’s cardiovascular system.

It is one of the most efficient oxygen delivery systems in the animal world and is the prime reason why horses are such gifted athletes.

But a delivery system is only as good as the supply chain. It is the respiratory system that supplies oxygen to the muscles to produce the energy that allows the muscles to move the body.

In this article we will explore the horse's respiratory system and learn why it is the limiting factor in even the highest performing horse athlete.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL STORY IN 'INTEGRITY MATTERS' AT THETROTS.COM.AU

 

Related News

7 March 2026
Our Rob Roy wins Tassie 2YO season opener
For A Reason gelding, Our Rob Roy took out Tasmania’s first two-year-old race for the 2026 season, in Launceston on Friday night. Driven by Kayleb Williams, Our Rob Roy was restrained from a wide draw to settle last of the five before racing in the one-one from the 750m. Williams eased the pacer...
7 March 2026
GOODFORM - Ryan's look at Saturday night's card from Melton
Melton – Saturday, 7 March 2026 Race 1: OVERVIEW: FOLLOWTHEACE (4) is a high quality but lightly raced 7yo who resumed off a long break last time out. He burned off the arm with no luck whatsoever with his map and found the line quite well under the circumstances. A much more positive map and fitness...
7 March 2026
Older eyes Carrick Cup success before Victorian return
Sunday afternoon’s Carrick Cup program will be the third last in Tasmania for concession driver Liam Older as he prepares to move back to Victoria. Older, who grew up in Tasmania, moved to Victoria to further his career in the sulky. He finished fifth in the 2024 Concession Drivers Premiership,...
6 March 2026
Birchip the focus as Burning Questions returns
Alex Ashwood, Michael Bellman and Darren Carroll all have a big hand to play at the annual Birchip meeting this weekend, and they joined Tim O’Connor to discuss the day during a special edition of Burning Questions. CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE FULL EPISODE
6 March 2026
GOODFORM – TOC's analysis of Friday night at Melton
Tim O’Connor has done the form for tonight’s meeting at Melton. CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL FORM AT THETROTS.COM.AU
Click for more