Big/Wide horse, small rider...help please!

[Sarah1]

Hi all

My horse is a 16.3hh/17hh ID x WB who has an XW saddle. I am 5'3" on a good day.

I schooled last night & got it videoed (can't find the lead to the camera to upload the vid as yet) and my legs/hips do seem very far apart because of him being so wide...will this make it harder for me to relax my hips & sit to the movement better?

Also it's obvious that I need to shorten my reins up to stop the energy going out of the front door - again I think it's harder to keep a bigger horse 'together' when you're small although my boy is very short through his back so he's easier than some!

Any tips from smaller riders who ride larger horses - particularly very wide ones?

Thanks

 

[cheeryplatypus]

I have a very wide horse IDx and am a narrow rider, size 6-8, 5'4. I'd agree that it's harder to keep them together though I know many others will dispute this and it probably depends on the horse.
I don't have one but I think you can get a saddle with a special tree to overcome this problem. I want to say a twist in the tree but not sure if that's the correct term.

It is probably worth seeing a good physio for some off horse exercises to relax and stretch things out but while ensuring the muscles are strong enough to support you in the big movements. Better to see one early for prevention than when you've got thickened tendons and the muscles are in spasm!

 

[JLD]

hi. I am 5'3 and had a wide 16.3 . I had a saddle which was a wide fit but had a narrow twist. this helped alot. is worth speaking to saddler

 

[JillA]

I have exactly the same problem and invested in a good saddle (Schleese) which helps, but helps him more than me. It has a very wide gullet to free his back, and is clear of his enormous shoulders, so he does move more freely. For me, I find if I can minimise the amount I need to use my legs it helps, so am working on clarifying my aids and encouraging him forward without having to keep using my legs. It isn't easy though, and the temptation is to nag. Good luck - use a Centred Riding instructor who does help me to get his rear end working and to not block him.