2.1. Control subjects group (Phase 1)

The variables to be measured include:
Fitness tests:
1. Body composition (BF%)
2. Resting blood pressure (RBP)
3. Resting heart rate (RHR)
4. Maximum oxygen uptake (MOU)
5. Range of motion (ROM) flexibility at shoulder, hamstring and lower back
6. Passive and reactive balance
7. Muscular Endurance

Energy Balance
1. Basal Metabolic Rate
2. Daily calorie intake
3. Energy expenditure

Training heart rate threshold during various riding gaits:
1. Walking
2. Sitting trot
3. Rising trot
4. Canter

The variables for consideration include:
1. Training frequency
2. Training duration
3. Level of conditioning in trained subjects confounded by riding experience
and proficiency (novice, intermediate, advanced)
4. Other intra-subject confounding variables including health and medical
status, dietary habits and other forms of physical activity undertaken