Data Driven trends in Show Jumping

Show jumping is a thrilling equestrian sport that involves riders guiding their horses through a series of obstacles in a timed event. In recent years, the sport has become increasingly data-driven, with technology playing a more important role in improving horse and rider performance. From performance analysis software to wearable technology and predictive analytics, the show jumping industry is embracing data-driven trends to gain a competitive edge. Breeding decisions are now informed by data, while video analysis and performance tracking tools help riders and trainers identify areas for improvement. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more data-driven trends in the show jumping industry, making the sport even more exciting and competitive.

Performance analysis

Show jumping riders and trainers are now using performance analysis tools to track horse and rider performance. They use software programs to track things like jump height, speed, distance covered, and other performance metrics. This data can help them identify areas for improvement and develop training plans that are tailored to the individual needs of each horse and rider.

Show jumping riders and trainers are now using performance analysis tools to track horse and rider performance. They use software programs to track things like jump height, speed, distance covered, and other performance metrics. This data can help them identify areas for improvement and develop training plans that are tailored to the individual needs of each horse and rider.

• Performance Analysis is a process of enhancing athletic performance through statistical and visual video data analysis. It helps athletes to perform to the best of their ability by providing specific training and improved decision-making. The process identifies small improvements that can result in significant improvements in performance. Performance Analysis is accessible to all levels of riders, whether they are competing at an international event or trying to improve their results for the next show.
• Performance Analysis can be used to structure specific training programs by identifying physiological, psychological, biomechanical, and tactical areas to improve. The analysis can be tailored for individual horse and rider combinations. Some examples of key performance indicators that can be derived from video analysis include hip angles, knee angles, ankle angles, shoulder angles, elbow angles, neck angle (from back) in dressage, movement/test element marks specific to each level, corresponding angle and body movement analysis, rule infringements, fences cleared/knocked/refused/run-out, types of fences, distances between fences in combinations, elimination/retired/fall, correct course, time faults, and body movement variation. In summary, Performance Analysis helps riders to reach their goals by using accessible feedback, identifying areas for marginal gains, and making specific improvements in training. It is a valuable tool for riders and coaches to improve skills and competence required for the increasing demands of competitive sport.

JUMPR App is a user-friendly app designed for riders, trainers, and owners with horses competing at FEI level as a tool to assess and track a horse’s performance in real-time. The app compiles and filters show jumping results data from multiple sources and is updated daily to provide a clear picture of a horse’s record. The app provides three metrics when assessing a horse: clear round rate, competitiveness, and four faults or less rate. JUMPR also lays the bricks for a more enriched fan experience, much like its NBA Fantasy League predecessor. Data and statistics are a universal language that opens equestrian sport to a wider fan base, particularly among the younger generation. With the rise of fantasy sports in the equestrian space, JUMPR's data will be increasingly in demand. The challenge is whether data will be adopted by the traditionally tradition-obsessed equestrian industry. However, a data-driven approach will never replace the innate instinct of a horseman in the purchasing process or team selection but can inform the process.

Data-driven breeding:

Breeding horses has always been a combination of art and science, but now data is playing an increasingly important role in the process. Breeders are using data to identify horses with desirable traits, such as speed, agility, and jumping ability. They can then use this information to make informed breeding decisions and improve the overall quality of the horses in the sport.

Data-driven breeding is a relatively new concept in the equestrian world that uses data analytics to help breeders make informed decisions about which stallions to use for breeding.

The Hippomundo Power Value ? is one such tool that allows breeders to measure the success of a stallion's offspring in international competitions. This value is calculated by adding up the levels of all the offspring of a particular stallion that have competed in international competitions since January 1st, 2015, and dividing that number by the number of offspring that have competed. The resulting value represents the average level that the offspring of a particular stallion will reach in their lifetime, which can be used as a guide for breeders when selecting which stallions to use in their breeding programs. By using data analytics, breeders can make more informed decisions about which stallions to use, rather than relying solely on traditional breeding methods that may not take into account a stallion's track record.

Predictive analytics:

Predictive analytics is a field of data analysis that uses machine learning algorithms to identify patterns and predict future events. In the show jumping industry, predictive analytics is being used to predict the likelihood of a horse winning a particular event or performing well in a certain environment. This information can be used to inform training and competition strategies.

• JumpClear is a tool that uses data analytics to measure performance in the horse sport of show jumping, allowing riders to focus on improving their weaknesses and mastering their strengths. The service provides accessible, data-driven insights to riders, trainers, and equestrian enthusiasts through subscription and on-demand analytics. One of the core features of JumpClear is the Fault Source Analysis, which analyzes faults incurred in competition based on six metrics: jump type, detail, technicality, lead, leg, and rail. This analysis is designed to identify a horse and rider's most common faults, providing a more integrated approach to analyzing show jumping based on performance analytics found in many other sports. JumpClear also provides competition statistics based on Clear Round Average with detail by division, round, and rider, which is different from what's offered by some other services because it includes results from national competitions, making it more comprehensive and relevant. The platform structures all analysis around a 12-month baseline and a 3-month trend, allowing members to access meaningful insights on day one. Additionally, JumpClear performs all data collection and analysis from review of competition video, with members accessing their reports through web-based accounts. JumpClear is designed to be another tool in a rider's toolbox, not a replacement for a trainer, and isn't a fool-proof solution if the fundamentals in a program are off. However, it's a value-add that gives riders more knowledge and helps them improve their performance in the ring. JumpClear is being used by all levels of riders, with top professionals using the tool to pinpoint their most common faults, while other riders find it helpful because it adds an element of logic to a sport that can be about in-the-moment natural feel. Horse tech is here to stay, and Ashley's ultimate long-term vision for JumpClear is to bring together performance data with stable management and training data.
• Prixview is a platform designed as a hub for show jumping fans, combining different elements to help them follow the sport. It offers a complete dropdown menu of 2*, 3*, 4* and 5* shows going on throughout the world on a weekly basis, accompanied by a livestream link, so fans can decide which events they’re interested in that week and what to watch all in one place. However, while it links the channel live streaming the show, fans may still need to subscribe to the network airing the event. One of the unique features of Prixview is the free "fantasy" games, which offer real cash prizes. Fans can access the free entry games based on top classes running that week after setting up an account. Prixview also offers horse and rider stats for fans to view, including the "Top Earners" page dedicated to top rider's earning stats and the Horse and Rider Features, which expand on the sporting statistics concept for a selection of horses and riders. Fans can see their win percentage, but also faults by point of contact, lead, arena type and surface. It also includes links to rider’s socials if they have them and a blog that highlights top riders and their success history at various competitions. However, as a new platform, Prixview is still growing, and some of the features such as the blog and news tabs are still in the early stages of development. Additionally, it currently only covers show jumping, so fans of other equestrian disciplines will need to continue their search elsewhere. Despite these limitations, Prixview is a great, organized space to follow along with top show jumping events and to learn more about the sport.

Predictive analysis has the potential to change show jumping and show jumping data by providing insights that were previously difficult or impossible to obtain through traditional analysis methods. By analyzing large datasets and identifying patterns and trends, predictive analysis can be used to make informed predictions about future performance and identify areas for improvement.

One way in which predictive analysis can be used is to identify the most successful strategies for competing in show jumping. By analyzing data from past competitions, predictive analysis can identify the types of jumps, courses, and techniques that are most likely to result in a clear round. This information can be used to optimize training programs and develop more effective competition strategies.

Predictive analysis can also be used to identify individual rider and horse strengths and weaknesses. By analyzing data on past performances, including faults and penalties incurred, predictive analysis can identify areas where a rider and their horse are most likely to struggle. This information can be used to develop targeted training programs and address areas of weakness before they become a major problem in competition.

Overall, predictive analysis has the potential to revolutionize the way that show jumping data is collected and analyzed. By providing a more detailed and accurate picture of performance, predictive analysis can help riders and trainers optimize training programs, develop more effective competition strategies, and ultimately improve performance in the ring.

Wearable technology:

Wearable technology is becoming increasingly popular in the show jumping industry. Horses can wear sensors that track things like heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature. This information can help trainers and riders monitor the horse's health and well-being, and adjust their training and competition plans accordingly.

• Wearable technology is becoming increasingly popular in the show jumping industry, with companies like Seaver offering innovative solutions to monitor horse performance and well-being. Seaver's connected girth, which was developed by riders for riders, allows for the monitoring of a horse's performance and physical condition during training and competition. The device provides a comprehensive view of the horse through features like heart rate, symmetry, and jump data, allowing riders to properly organize their training sessions, maximize performance, and prevent health issues. The Seaver system is available in two types of devices, the girth and the Quick Star girth sleeve, with a free app that updates in real-time and is available in several languages. Seaver has received support from both amateur and professional riders, and has been showcased at horse shows and events around the world. The use of technology in the show jumping industry is improving horse and rider performance, enhancing the horse/rider relationship, and providing new opportunities for data-driven analysis and decision-making.

Video analysis:

Video analysis is a powerful tool for show jumping riders and trainers. They can use video to review their performance and identify areas for improvement. They can also use video to analyze the performance of their competitors and develop strategies to beat them in future competitions.

• Video analysis has become an essential tool for coaches in various sports. Show jumping is no exception. Video analysis can help coaches and riders identify problems with their technique or performance and work towards correcting them. It provides a visual perspective for both the athlete and coach, allowing them to share the same view and make adjustments together. However, video analysis should be used judiciously, with a focus on making changes that are realistically possible later in training.
• Coaches should think of "minimum effective analysis" to avoid overwhelming athletes with too much information. The purpose of video analysis should be to make measurable improvements in an objective and finite way. Video analysis can provide specific measurements of performance, audit the consistency and development process of training, and teach how other performers execute a movement. It can also help coaches identify truths in training that may be difficult to extract in any other way. It is essential to know when not to use video analysis.
• Coaches should avoid measuring angles that do not mean much and focus on simpler analysis that provides instant benefits to both the coach and athlete. Furthermore, manual video analysis should not be performed when technology can automate the process. In show jumping, joint degree measures require time and distance data, and biomechanical analysis from video can be precise but only in snapshots of time.
• Nonetheless, video is the ultimate truth between coaches and athletes, and its reference is not debatable. In conclusion, video analysis is a valuable tool for show jumping coaches and riders. However, it should be used judiciously to avoid overwhelming athletes with too much information. Coaches should focus on using video analysis to make measurable improvements in performance and to provide an objective and finite view of an athlete's progress.

Overall, the show jumping industry is embracing data-driven technology to improve horse and rider performance, inform breeding decisions, and develop winning strategies. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more data-driven trends in the sport.

• BarnManager is a cloud-based solution that simplifies barn management for horse owners. The subscription is based on the number of horses you have in your barn, with plans available for 3 to 200 horses. BarnManager is a one-stop-shop for detailed record keeping, managing logistics, coordinating staff, vendors, and clients, and navigating the complexities of managing a business. With its mobile apps and platform, BarnManager enables horse owners to access the information they need anytime and anywhere. Nicole Lakin, the Owner and President of BarnManager, believes that technology will never fully replace classic horsemanship, and this belief informs the way that they build and market their technology. BarnManager is currently working on a Quickbooks integration and other product integrations as part of their future plans. They also share their event schedule in their monthly newsletter called Inside the Barn and on social media.
• Hippovibe , a Belgian and German-based horse tech provider, has developed a digital solution to help horse owners manage their equine-related tasks, schedules, and health records from anywhere. Hippovibe’s web application and app allow stable managers, riders, and grooms to consolidate all information into one place, eliminating the risk of miscommunication and loss of records. The solution offers features such as task planning, historical task reference, and health management. Hippovibe also provides a calendar system to plan for upcoming competitions or training sessions. The company plans to release a push notification system soon to keep everyone up-to-date in real-time. The solution is ideal for all disciplines and can serve stables worldwide. Hippovibe's core belief is that it makes sense to use technology to better manage horses, while also reflecting the everyday digital consumer habits of people. The company primarily markets itself on Facebook and Instagram, with a presence at select horse shows in Germany and the Netherlands.

Data is already changing the landscape of show jumping by providing insights and information that were previously difficult to obtain. With the use of technology and data analysis tools, riders, trainers, and owners can now better assess and track a horse's performance and identify areas of improvement. The Hippomundo Power Value and JUMPR App are examples of data-driven approaches being used in show jumping.

In the next few years, data is expected to continue to play a significant role in show jumping. The adoption of data-driven methods is likely to become more widespread, and we can expect to see the development of new technologies and tools that make it easier to collect, analyze, and utilize data in show jumping. Data-driven breeding and performance analysis are just some of the areas where data is already having a significant impact, and we can expect to see more innovations in these areas and others.

Overall, data is helping to drive the evolution of show jumping by providing a more objective and evidence-based approach to horse training, breeding, and competition. With the continued development and adoption of data-driven methods, we can expect to see show jumping become even more competitive and dynamic in the years to come.