[haflingerfriends] Re: Rider weight?

It really depends on the fitness level of the horse and the balance of the rider.  My Haflinger is 14.2h, and stocky, but not super drafty.  He was 4 when we got him and green broke.  I am not a light rider (265 lbs), so I had a friend's daughter put some rides on him to get him in shape and put some training on him (she's 18 and a great rider, about 120 lbs).  I also did lunging work with him two days a week.  He's now in good shape and we're slowing begining to ride him (my husband is also heavy, around 250 lbs).  We'll take it slow with just 30-40 minute arena rides for a while; lots of walk and trot work to build his stamina and strength.  He doesn't seem to have any problems with me at the moment.
 
Now, I am a very balanced rider and am "light" in the saddle.  I use well fitting saddles with good shock absorbing pads on my horses (Skito or ThinLine, or boh).  I ride everything from our small/petite QhxArab (14.1h) to my beefy 15.2h 1,100 lb Appy, to a TALL 16.1h Paint mare (lots of TB in her).  They all do fine with me.  Now, I'm not going to take the little girl out on 6 hr trail rides, as she's not able to handle more than 200 lbs for long stretches, but she does fine for arena work or short/light trails.  My 15.2h Appy has been with me for 8 years.  We've done quite a few 4-6 hour trail rides, up and down hilly terrain, at all gaits.  As long as I keep her in shape, she does very well for me.
 
I AM trying to lose weight, but it's been a life-long battle.  Riding the horses is the only thing that keeps me somewhat fit and able to go hiking and work out.  I think I may have some medical issues preventing weight loss (I really don't eat much...), but I dread going to the doctor.  I guess I'll have to suck it up and go soon.  I'm really tired of being big, and I just crested 30 years old.  I don't want to end up with heart problems like my dad...
 
Anyhow, I just wanted to give my experiences with being big and riding various horses.  You have to use your own good judgement.  Watch the horse's behavior and respiration, and check their back before and after the ride, and the next day.  Your horse will let you know if he/she can't handle what's being asked of him.
 
 
~Barbara
 

 
 

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