Backing a horse - how heavy?

blitznbobs

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I have a 16.1 warmblood who is rising 4 … I really fancy backing this one myself … how heavy do you think a horse like this could comfortably carry … she weighs about 580 to 600kgs
 
This is a how long is a piece of string question really. If it were a young, ambitious person I would say different (lighter) than for you, who gas always come across as mature, experienced and sensible. You are less likely to rush it or ask for too much.

If the horse is well made, and has done some in hand work first, is healthy etc, then I would be happy up to 14st. I am aware that some people would say that is too much.

At that weight, I would take the weight into consideration with short sessions and attention to how the horse moves and carries itself.
 
I assume at 580/600 she is either quite a strong frame/muscled type, or is fat. The former I think ideally no more than 13st, the latter 12st.
 
Ok that’s good after a summer of starvation ( mine not the horses) I’m 9 1/2 ish she’s a big built warmblood so it’s all ok don’t think she’s particularly fat - her in the summer pictured below - there are some horses that just do it for you and she is one of them ( as for me being sensible - I’m about to back a chestnut mare - sensible doesn’t come into it😂)
 

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Isn't it broadly 20% when they are mature, up and running and muscled.

That drops to 15% when old, young, immature etc.

Those figures to include saddle, riding hat, boots etc.

So at 580kgs - 15% is 87kgs less a 8kg saddle / stirrups / girth etc. and then get dressed in your hat, books, body protector and see how far off 80kgs you are.
 
More important whoever is backing the horse and riding it away stays on. She won't notice 9.5st but if she drops her first rider she will have a fright and learn riders can be got rid of. One of my mentors decades ago, told me the worst thing that can happen at backing and riding away stage is a rider fall.
She is a cocky little madam but I will make sure I wear my sticky bottomed big girl pants . She’s not a panicker by nature tho and I should have an indoor by then to reduce the spooks
 
In 9.5 stone and I’ve stopped riding my mare until I lose weight… but she’s 13.2 and has had KS surgery.

On a giant warmblood you’ll be grand.
 
I'm a similar weight 9st4 with a similar horse, 16.1 ISH so slightly chunkier, also rising 4. I worked out that I am 12% including tack and for a young horse I am happy to be, and to keep, within 15% for backing him. We had our first 20 minute hack last weekend, you will be more than fine. Good luck and enjoy.
 
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