we use the CRI a lot here in France on rides, mainly to try & filter
out borderline cases which may have problems when continuing the ride - this
test, according to R. himself, is most significant when heart rate = roughly
between 60 - 70 bpm, a 64-68 for exemple would be reason for concern and
combined with the other measurements might lead to a recommandation to withdraw,
while a 40-52 for ex is not necessarily a problem if all other parameters
are ok
this test is mandatory here as a recheck just before leaving before
the last loop on all race rides (60 + miles) and it looks like the number of
horses needed medical care during or after a race has diminished over the past
two years. Interpretation however, is subject to much discussion... partly I
think because of lack of understanding/training for vets & riders on the
significance of results.. not an exact science, more a barometer to be used in
combination with other parametres.. but definitely a very very useful tool (
also during training)
