Evaluation of Serum Electrolytes and Blood Lactate Concentration During Repeated Maximal Exercise in Horse

Modifications of some serum electrolyte concentration during two international *** show jumping competition performed in two consecutive weekends were evaluated. Serum sodium (Na), chloride (Cl), magnesium (Mg), potassium (K), phosphorous (P), calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), and blood lactate on 14 well-trained Italian saddle horses were assessed. Blood samples were collected before the beginning of the competition (T0B), within 10 minutes after the end of race (R1, R2, and R3), and on the day after competition (T0R). The same procedure was followed on the second weekend (R4, R5, R6, and T1R). One-way repeated measures analysis of variance was applied on collected data, and a significant effect on sampling time (P < .05) on all parameters studied was found. These results suggest that serum electrolytes and blood lactate concentration are responsive to intense exercise and could be considered an important factor for a correct management training's planning.