Ability musings!

[pistolpete]

So I’m 60 I’m an average rider. Not done much other than hack for a long time but would like to try a jumping lesson again if the opportunity arose. I have two lovely she’s ponies to ride both of which are safe and very sane. Here’s the question.
Both of the owners of share horses own spicier horses that they always ride. I’m tempted to offer to swap onto them but worry I’ll be over horsed. How do you know if you’re up to the challenge?

 

[blitznbobs]

So I’m 60 I’m an average rider. Not done much other than hack for a long time but would like to try a jumping lesson again if the opportunity arose. I have two lovely she’s ponies to ride both of which are safe and very sane. Here’s the question.
Both of the owners of share horses own spicier horses that they always ride. I’m tempted to offer to swap onto them but worry I’ll be over horsed. How do you know if you’re up to the challenge?

Can you just have a sit on in an arena before going for a very short hack … if you are mega over horses you will know in the arena and if you are a bit over horsed then so what? On a short hack which you are comfortable with not a lot can go wrong … and swap back if it’s too scary

 

[MuddyMonster]

I wouldn't offer personally - on the basis that most people I know with two don't actually want additional help for their second one, as they enjoy riding them but want the help with their old faithful.

But, if you don't ask you don't get and all that so if you're keen to upgrade, I guess it would be worth an ask (but be prepared for the answer to be no).

 

[pistolpete]

Thank you both. One has offered. The other hasn’t. But I know she does still love to ride old faithful! Hence the musing!

 

[blitznbobs]

Thank you both. One has offered. The other hasn’t. But I know she does still love to ride old faithful! Hence the musing!

Nothing wrong with saying to the one that has offered pretty much what you said here… then they can help you make a decision one way or the other

 

[pistolpete]

Can you just have a sit on in an arena before going for a very short hack … if you are mega over horses you will know in the arena and if you are a bit over horsed then so what? On a short hack which you are comfortable with not a lot can go wrong … and swap back if it’s too scary

That’s a really good idea! I could certainly ask to do that.

 

[Wishfilly]

Thank you both. One has offered. The other hasn’t. But I know she does still love to ride old faithful! Hence the musing!

I would definitely ask if you could have a sit in the school or similar first (if available) and then if you feel comfortable go out for a hack, in the school if you feel overhorsed, you can just jump off, most people will understand this!