What type or size of horse for large framed beginer rider?
Everyone in our family is 5'10 or taller and relatively hefty. The lightest of us is 220 lbs. We're interested in finally bringing a horse to our property but were worried we may be too 'giant'. None of us have any riding experience but our daughter is experienced in horse behavior and care and we have a friend willing to work with us over proper riding techniques and we have a trainer lined up for any horse we bring on. We're just wondering what breed of horses should we look for. Or if breed doesn't matter, what height or 'hands' should we look for? Any advice is appreciated. Thank you.
Welcome to the worked of riding! And good for you for having a professional out there ready to help as soon as you get your new horse!
Horses can carry up to 20% of their own body weight without having any ill impact. For example a 1,500 lb horse should be able to carry a 300lb human. If a 350lb human rides him though that is where the trouble comes in. One ride even can do irreversable damage to their spine and back muscles.
A great first horse for you all would be a draft horse. They are usually gentol, smart, and safe which is exactly what you want from a first horse. Look for a Clydesdale, Percheron, etc that has been broke to ride (that is key because a lot of people just drive draft horses).
You can do an advanced search and put in that you want your horse to be over 16 hh (you guys are so tall that you need something at least that tall or you will look silly) and how ever heavy it needs to be. Hope that helps and good luck.
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