ridecamp@endurance.net: Re: [endurance] Rider Weight

Re: [endurance] Rider Weight

navion@lightspeed.net
Thu, 28 Mar 1996 18:13:56 PST

> The second is not so clear cut and the following is a theory from high
> school physics that was discussed by Dr Bennett at the AERC convention
> a few years ago.
>
> Assume you start with a horse that is 14-3 and weighs 800 lb. (Any
> assumed dimensions and weight will work). Since the weight will

snip

> 14-3 horse: 1020 lb/100 su's = 10.2 lb per strength unit
>
> 15-3 horse: 1196 lb/114 su's = 10.5 lb per strength unit
>
> The larger horse is carrying more weight per unit of strength!
>
This formula assumes weight increases as a cubed term ( which I agree with,
volume is linear dimensions cubed ) but strength only as a squared term. I know
nothing about this but it would seem that as the muscle mass increases the
strength would increase the same. i.e. both cubed terms. The muscle weighs 50%
more and would have 50% more strength? Now this does not discuss cooling which
larger masses of the same shape have trouble doing or other factors.
Anybody who can enlighten me on this squared term please do so, privately to
minimize congestion.
Thanks

Jim Mitchell
navion@bak2.lightspeed.net
Bakersfield, Calif.