Rider size for a Fjord pony

[backonboard1]

Hi all!

I'm on the hunt for a new horse, and came to the forum seeking some impartial advice. I am an adult rider currently on the hunt for my second horse. My first horse is ancient (32) and has been a beloved field ornament for a few years now. I took some time off riding partially due to work commitments, and partially because I felt I had gained too much weight to ride.

I've been actively working on my weight now for about a year, and have lost 3 stone, and returned to riding this summer at a school after I got below 14st again. I am now searching for a second horse, and wondering if at my current size of 12.5st I would be too big for a 14.2hh solidly built fjord pony? I tried him last week and fell in love, but am hesitating because of my size. I am hoping to lose another 1-2st, but don't want to buy a pony I would currently be too big for.

 

[be positive]

A fit, healthy native type should be comfortable carrying you at the weight you are now so as you plan on continuing the good work I would buy him and use him as an incentive to get to the weight you want to be, riding is great exercise so that should help as well as all the other jobs that need doing.

 

[Highflinger]

Fjords are very strong. He will hardly know you are there!
Go for it - they are a lovely breed.

 

[FinnishLapphund]

Even though it belongs among draught horses, the Fjord horse breed was developed to be able to be useful both in harness, and under saddle, and to be strongly built. Other times I've heard your question asked, the most common answer seems to be that they're built like tanks, and good weight carriers.

So I doubt there will be any problems for a normal Fjord to carry your weight.