Rider weight: A delicate but important topic
Just like people, horses come in all shapes and sizes, and their ability to carry weight can vary based on age, fitness, and other factors. For the sake of consistency in shows and events, we use a simple rule of thumb: a horse/rider weight ratio.
For RoR’s competitions, this means the rider and their gear (including saddle, stirrups, girths, numnahs, saddle pads/cloths) should not exceed 17% of the horse's weight. In practical terms this means that a 500kg thoroughbred can carry up to a total of 13 1/2 stone. It’s important to ensure the horse is healthy and not overweight, as this can also be a welfare concern and impact the amount of weight the horse can carry safely.
There are many other factors involved, including the skill and fitness of the rider, the weight, size and fitness of the horse, the nature of the exercise and the suitability of the tack, which must also be considered. However, where there is a clear mismatch between the weight and size of the horse and rider, then officials may intervene for the welfare of the horse. If this is noticed during an RoR class or competition, we will ensure this is handled discreetly and privately.
We know that carrying too much weight can cause muscle fatigue and loss of muscle tone in horses, affecting their skeletal structure and performance. This can lead to stumbling, falling, or behavioural issues like reluctance to be tacked up or mounted. These situations can jeopardise the safety of both horse and rider.
As riders, it’s essential to be honest about our weight. Within society as a whole, individuals have become larger over the past 50 years, and it is important that we are aware of the impact carrying too much weight can have on a horse.
More equestrian organisations are adopting horse/rider weight ratios, and it’s hoped this will become standard across all disciplines. Ongoing studies are being carried out in order to bolster the evidence to support this need.
We want everyone to enjoy riding, but choosing the right horse is key. The welfare of the horse or pony must always come first.
If you have any questions or concerns about your horse/rider weight ratio, please feel free to contact the RoR team on info@ror.org.uk or call 01488 648998.
RoR's policy on horse/rider weight
Amanda Stoddart-West, The Welfare Stewarding Team
The Welfare Stewarding Team are an independent group of over 30 volunteers from the equestrian industry including veterinary surgeons, saddlers, chiropractors, physiotherapists and other equine professionals from across the country.
The British Horse Society have provided specialised training with the aim to educate on welfare issues and encourage better horsemanship, understanding and consideration for all horses and ponies.
Amanda, Cathy Hyde and Tamzin Furtado will be at the Jockey Club RoR National Championships for the duration of the event. Please approach them if you have questions; they will have access to a weighbridge if you would like to find out your horse’s weight etc. or would like some help with anything else that you are concerned about. They are at our championships to help, encourage and support.