horseriding

[Immi666]

i did a few "own a pony days" in the summers when i was a child and would very much like to get back into horseriding. however i've grown into a large lady (not just height) and i dont want to call a stables only to be told i'm too large. does anyone know the rough weight limits for horseriding? (i'm aware that it would depend on the size of the horse) I'm just looking for guidelines

[~posy-jo~]

the only advice i can give u is to ring around a few stables and ask them. i used to ride regularly and there were quite a few larger people who rode like u say it depends on the size of the horse. there was a rather large man who rode on a sunday he rode a shire cross. horse riding is such an enjoyable thing i hope u get back into it. i don't think any stables will say u r too large if they do tell them where to shove it!! xXx

[horselady]

It really depends on where you ring and what horses they have. The weight limit is usually around 15st. The stables near me has one huge lovely horse that will happily carry large men so would certainly carry you. Don't feel embarrased, we've all put on wieght since we were little girls riding ponies, you won't be able to leap on straight from the ground any more either! In my case it's usually an undignified scramble from an upturned crate!

[Immi666]

thanks guys. i'll give some places a call :)

[~posy-jo~]

sorry not sure why my answer appeared twice!! xXx

[noxlumos]

hi, a good large Irish draft type horse will carry a big man out hunting all day so unless you are exceptionally large upwards of say 18stone plus or so then you should have no trouble as long as your riding school of choice has a suitable horse. Remember that horses, as long as they are sufficiently heavily built themselves, are capable of carrying very large weights. I'm sure you're not as heavy as a knight in a suit of armour for instance whoever you are, it's just going to be a case of finding the right horse. Hope youi enjoy yourself:)

[lankeela]

horselady, that rang a few bells! I rode last week for the first time in over ten years, and it took an upturned bucket and a very long stirrup leather to get me on board - no lightly springing into the saddle and certainly no light bounce bending the knees to dismount! More like a crumpled heap underneath the horse's belly -good job he was placid.

Still it did make me want to go again, but I know my limitations - no circus ponies, just an old plod.

And Immi, my weight has certainly increased a bit over the years so I shouldn't worry.