- AAEP releases first prospective study on wearable sensors in racehorses
- Sensors flagged higher injury risk with yellow/red alerts
- Horses with alerts were about twice as likely to develop issues
- Technology did not disrupt training or racing participation
- Sensors seen as a complement—not replacement—for veterinary oversight
- Further research needed before widespread adoption
The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) has released findings from its Wearable Biometric Sensor Research Project, offering new insights into how technology could help detect musculoskeletal injury risk in Thoroughbred racehorses.
Early Detection of Injury Risk
The study found that horses flagged by sensors with “yellow” or “red” alerts were about twice as likely to develop musculoskeletal issues compared to those consistently rated “green.”
Risk increased further in horses that received repeated alerts, suggesting the technology may help identify patterns of concern before injuries become clinically apparent.
Real-Time Monitoring During Training
The project followed two-year-old Thoroughbreds over a year as they entered training, using wearable sensors to collect real-time data during high-speed workouts.
Importantly, the use of sensors did not interfere with training schedules or performance. In fact, about half of the horses in the study went on to race—higher than the industry average.
Supporting, Not Replacing, Clinical Judgment
AAEP emphasized that wearable sensors are not intended to replace veterinary decision-making but rather to provide additional data to support earlier and more informed interventions.
The goal is to improve how trainers and veterinarians assess a horse’s condition before race entry, rather than making last-minute decisions on race day.
Industry Implications and Next Steps
While results are promising, AAEP noted that further refinement and validation are needed before sensors could become standard or mandated tools in racing.
The organization is encouraging continued research to improve the accuracy and reliability of these systems, with the long-term goal of enhancing horse welfare and reducing injury risk.
First-of-Its-Kind Study
This is the first prospective study of its kind evaluating wearable sensor technology for injury detection in racehorses. The project was supported by more than $900,000 in funding from industry organizations and involved multiple technology providers.
Information sourced from the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP).
