𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗠𝘂𝗰𝗵 𝗪𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝗿𝘀𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗿𝘆?

At Pony Club, our horses participate in various activities, and it’s essential to consider their well-being. As responsible owners, we need to be mindful of how much work is suitable for our horses. Researchers have studied the ideal weight-carrying capacity of horses to help us make informed decisions.

As outlined in Pony Club Australia’s horse welfare policy, the combined weight of the rider and saddlery should not exceed 20% of the horse’s weight. For example, a 13.2hh pony weighing 400kg should not carry a rider weighing more than 80kg with gear.

𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝗿𝘀𝗲’𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁
If you’re unsure of your horse’s weight, you can estimate it using a tape measure and this horse weight calculator: https://bit.ly/3VZlPSm

𝗖𝗮𝗹𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗠𝗮𝘅𝗶𝗺𝘂𝗺 𝗥𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗪𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁
Once you know your horse’s weight, you can calculate its maximum rider weight using this handy tool: https://bit.ly/4d3nVHG. Note that this tool assumes a well-balanced rider, a horse at their ideal weight, and a properly fitting saddle.

𝗙𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀 𝗔𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗠𝘂𝗰𝗵 𝗪𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝗿𝘀𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗿𝘆

𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯
A horse that can easily carry weight usually has a well-muscled, short back and thick cannon bones. This horse will have a lower centre of gravity compared to a horse with long legs and a long, weak back. Always consider your horse’s build and adjust their fitness plans accordingly.

𝘍𝘪𝘵𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 & 𝘉𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦
The fitness and balance of both horse and rider are crucial. An unfit or unbalanced horse will struggle to support the rider’s weight while maintaining its own balance. Similarly, an unfit rider—or one that is too tall for the horse or pony—can throw off the horse’s balance, leading to discomfort and potential injury. Ensuring both horse and rider are in good condition is essential for a safe and enjoyable ride.

𝘋𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 & 𝘐𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘞𝘰𝘳𝘬
Activities over rough terrain, for longer durations, and at increased speeds demand more effort from the horse. Only attempt such activities if both horse and rider are fit enough to handle the increased physical demands.

𝘌𝘲𝘶𝘪𝘱𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 & 𝘏𝘰𝘰𝘧 𝘊𝘢𝘳𝘦
Always ensure your equipment meets the needs of the activity. A properly fitting saddle distributes the rider’s weight evenly without causing muscle soreness. Regular hoof care is also vital; hooves should be trimmed to provide a balanced, flat surface for weight-bearing. For horses that wear down their hooves quickly or have thin soles, consider using shoes or protective boots based on professional advice from a farrier or veterinarian.

𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗲-𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗮𝗴𝗲
Understanding your horse’s weight and the maximum weight it can carry ensures their welfare and promotes a long, healthy partnership. Always consider your horse’s physical condition, the demands of the activities you engage in, and the quality of your equipment to keep your horse happy and healthy.