Centaur Biomechanics Webinars

 

Date: Saturday 26th September 2026

 

Location: Centaur Biomechanic Training and Research, Dunstaffanage House, Moreton Morrell, Warwickshire, CV35 9BD

 

Time: 09:30 – 17:00 HRS BST

 

Equine conformation has long been regarded as an important indicator of performance potential and overall soundness in horses. Across the many breeds, each possesses distinct conformational characteristics that influence both function and appearance. While conformation provides the structural framework to which soft tissues attach, it does not guarantee performance or long-term soundness. Assessment of conformation is often considered subjective and is frequently described as an art. However, research has contributed valuable insights that help guide more objective and consistent evaluations.

 

This course takes a practical approach to conformational assessment, examining horses both statically and dynamically. As conformation is closely linked to movement and limb loading, the course also explores how structural features influence gait patterns and biomechanical stresses. By integrating conformation analysis with observations of movement and limb-loading characteristics, participants will develop a more comprehensive understanding of the horse in motion as well as when standing.

 

Theory:

Conformation from an evidence-based perspective

 

Practical:

Static conformation of four horses of different breeds and types

Specifically:

• Where to start when conducting a conformational assessment
• How to assess forelimb, hindlimb and trunk conformation
• How do you determine conformation vs posture, is there a difference
• Can you predict how the horse will move based on the static conformation
• From a conformation perspective: what is ideal, what is manageable, and what is a concern?

 

Dynamic conformation of four horses of different breeds and types. For the dynamic sessions, measuring systems will be used to help evaluate horses

Specifically:

• Overview of whole horse biomechanics when walking and trotting
• Is there a biomechanical difference when travelling in a straight line vs a circle?
• What is dynamic conformation? How do you assess it?
• What is, and how do you assess gait quality?

 

This course is designed for anyone wishing to advance their understanding of equine conformation and movement patterns. It combines current research with a practical approach to explore the key factors that influence soundness and performance in horses.

 

Cost

£130 incl VAT and booking fees

Spaces are limited to allow for a more hands on and interactive experience.

 

Notes:

• CPD certificates available
• Refreshments are provided; however, lunch is not included. The nearest shops are 10-minutes from Dunstaffanage House. It is advised to bring your own lunch.
• The practical session will involve being in an arena with a horse and rider. Please ensure that you wear appropriate footwear and clothing for standing in an arena.

 

Dr. Russell MacKechnie-Guire

Russell MacKechnie-Guire graduated from Warwickshire College in 2006 with a BSc (Hons) in Equine and Human Sports Science and now holds a PhD in Equine Biomechanics, graduating from the Royal Veterinary College in 2019. Russell’s thesis was titled ‘The Relationship between Saddle and Rider Kinematics, Equine Locomotion, and Thoracolumbar Pressures in Sports Horses’. Russell is based at Centaur Biomechanics, a company which he founded in 2006. He has extensively researched the effect that tack (saddle, bridle and girth) has on equine health and performance. Russell’s current area of research is horse-saddle-rider interaction, spinal kinematics in horses when ridden over ground and the effect that rider asymmetry has on equine back movement. In addition, Russell collaborates with researchers from around the world on various research projects associated with equine health and performance. He regularly presents his work at international meetings throughout the world and is a consultant for the British Equestrian Federations World Class, Team GBR programme. Russell is a member of the Team GBR’s Scientific Advisory Group, Society of Master Saddlers Scientific Advisory Group and chairs the horse+rider subgroup, part of the International Task force on Laterality in Sports Horses.

 

Erik MacKechnie-Guire FBHS

Originally from Scotland, Erik Mackechnie-Guire now lives in Moreton Morrell, where he runs a small stud of Highland ponies, breeding approximately three foals each year. His breeding programme focuses on traditional, proven performance bloodlines, with all current ponies tracing back to established and successful native lines. Erik combines his passion for native ponies with his professional role at British Equestrian, where he works as Para Pathway Manager. Alongside this, he maintains an active coaching schedule, regularly travelling across the UK. He became a Fellow of the British Horse Society (FBHS) in 2020. Native ponies have played a central role throughout Erik’s life; he learned to ride on native and native-cross ponies while growing up on the west coast of Scotland.

Erik is also a respected judge, sitting on the judges’ panel for the Highland Pony Society, as well as the National Pony Society (NPS), British Show Pony Society (BSPS), and UK Ponies & Horses (UKPH). These roles have enabled him to officiate at many of the UK’s leading agricultural and county shows, including Royal International Horse Show (RIHS), Royal Windsor and Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).