> The geometry
(and the relative physical dynamics that drive locomotion) of a good horse is a
constant regardless of breed. ---Frank
Amen, Frank! The
physics and biomechanics of athleticism do not change. I lecture
somewhat frequently on form-to-function, and that's one of the first issues I
address--the SAME basics are ideal for all disciplines. The only things
that change are the very superficial patina of so-called "type" (which if the
horse is to be ridden, by its very definition should include riding conformation
but all too often does not, in the modern useage of the word) and
perhaps which faults can be tolerated to some degree. But the concept of
the three-circle horse, the levelness of back, the proportion of neck to body,
the ratios and angles of leg bones, etc. do not change in what is
biomechanically ideal from pursuit to pursuit.
