Too Heavy To Ride My Horse Ep1: 20% Rule - Fat!

This week I came to the hard realisation that I am far too #fat to ride my #horse so I am doing something about it!
Join me at the beginning of my journey to get both me and my pony Hope fit and healthy again! #20%rule
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#horses #adayinthelifeofanequestrian #essentiallylivingthedream

[@1daySomeday]

You are a precious treasure of a lady!! To own up like that has all of my respect. To be transparent like that to us all, so many can learn from it and not feel so alone. You also encourage quality horsemanship even educating those who may not have even known about being overweight for their horse. You truly are a loving, compassionate, honest, and beautiful soul.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Oh my word @1daySomeday I'm not sure what to say, I am a bit speechless which is quite rare for me! Thank you so much for your kind words and know that I am both blown away and deeply humbled by them. I love my horses so very much and I don't think I could ever be without them. I've had Toby my blind horse since I was a kid and he's 44 now. Ill have to do some 'meet the herd' videos soon so I can tell you all about them. I really love making videos and if I can help people along the way then my word that would be incredible. Thank you again for your beautiful comment and I would love it if you would follow us on this journey 🐴

[@LisaPanton]

Well done, more people should be aware of this. my past horse was a 18h ID and he could manage my weight but I wanted something smaller to compete in dressage. So I bought a 16h fine warmblood mare as a rising 2 yo to produce. I have lost 3stone to ride her - one more to go until she can carry me efficiently without hindering her natural gaits and shortening her stride. it sucks but if they are polite horses they don't object but it ends in shortened gaites and later injury. intermittent fasting and keto have been my friends as middle-aged & menopausal losing weight it a biatch! you can do it :) and your mare will appreciate it x

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

I love this comment @LisaPanton and a huge, incredible well done for losing that amount of weight and for being so responsible for the horses in your care. Oh I do love a youngster, they are just so impressionable and they trust you so implicitly don't they ❤️❤️❤️ I'm going to be 43 next month and I know I'm going to be hitting menopause not long after that! Oh my word it never ends does it!!??

[@Sophiecjp]

I am so happy to see this video. There is a TikToker that put a video out there because she was denied access to ride a horse at a dude ranch due to the 20% rule. She however just made the video as them fat shaming her. Unfortunately, social media bought her story, because they know nothing about horses and they went and yelp bombed the dude Ranch and took their five star rating down to a one star rating. I don’t think people ever think about the fact that a horse can only carry so much weight. They just assume it’s a horse and that you can put any amount of weight on them. Bravo for this very educational video. I also feel that chocolate is the only food group too😂😂😂 I have been dieting myself and have lost 18lbs. I am using my net diary app and my Fitbit. The net diary app keeps me honest and it’s very easy to track everything you eat on it because it can scan the barcodes of everything you eat and so far I have not found one food that is not in there. It tells me how many calories I can have a dayin order to lose the weight. I am 6 pounds now from my goal weight. Good luck to you. It’s a hard journey, but well worth it in the end.

[@Abbey-pb6fd]

Oh that’s terrible that ranch had to go through that because they were looking out for their horses. I have seen places that don’t care about the horse only money that’s disgusting. Yep chocolate is my go too also 😂

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Yes @Sophiecjp ! Chocolate is definitely a food group! They just need to make it zero calorie so we can live on it in peace 😂😂😂 The WW club that I go to has an app and I've been tracking absolutely everything. I cant believe how many points some of the foods are though that I always thought were healthy!!! A huge WELL DONE for almost being at goal! WOW what an achievement! I have an 8 month membership so I'm aiming to get to goal if at all possible in that time so that I don't have to pay anymore. Oh what an awful shame for the poor ranch especially when times are so difficult at the most, its awful that we live in a culture like that now. Plus you just know a load of people that have no idea about horses left terrible reviews too. Keyboard warriors!!! I'm just so glad that more and more venues are getting wise to this now and are implementing it too. I'm sure that if it was just standard practice that lots of riders would suddenly be doing something about it... or selling their horses for bigger ones!

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

@Abbey-pb6fd you me and @Sophiecjp should start a club 😂😂😂 We can eat zero calorie chocolate all day and go and save that ranch!!!

[@Abbey-pb6fd]

@@EssentiallyLivingtheDream definitely on it all ready chocolate is a big part of my life 😂

[@Sophiecjp]

@@EssentiallyLivingtheDream that is the dream, zero calorie chocolate 😍. I am trying very hard this time to change my relationship with food. I remember sitting down one day and I was eating a cheeseburger and instead of saying this taste good. I said this feels good. I knew right then and there I was in trouble. I am using food to deal with those emotions, I don’t wanna deal with. It’s always something ain’t it.🤷‍♀️

[@user-og9mp9pp2d]

Thank you for sharing this. Non-riders often forget that horses are not machines. The weight struggle for horse and rider is REAL. 😂 It sounds like you have your plan for your mare sorted out. 👍🏻 For the human diet, I can only suggest keeping things simple and prepare and portion out meals ahead. That way, especially if you are tired, you know you can just reheat what you have in the right portion and enjoy.

[@susanvuturo4361]

I think you’re adorable and I truly admire you and your weight loss journey along with your horse’😊s!

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Oh thank you so much @susanvuturo4361 what a lovely thing to say, thank you ❤❤❤ I've definitely noticed a difference in us both and I even took the dopey one out for a long walk today! She was absolutely shattered by the time we got home and it was only about 3 km's bless her. I filmed some of the walk so that will definitely be in tomorrows vlog ❤❤❤

[@Foxhunter49]

I worked with horses professionally for over 50 years. The rider's weight is important but saying 20% percentage is not always true. I have seen a Welsh pony carrying a farmer, in 2' of snow, with a bale of hay strapped to the farmers back and another across his neck. No problems at all. Watch today’s cowboys riding horses for hours ar a time. These men would be 200 - 300 lbs, western saddles are heavy so add that. These horses work on often very rough terrain with no problem. A heavier well balanced rider will do less harm than a lighter weight rider that sits heavy. It would not do your mare any harm riding her out on gentle hacks.

[@annhans3535]

🤣. Girl, I came to that same conclusion about myself awhile ago. But I can still do other things while I try to lose a few,. Keep up the faith.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Oh @annhans3535 what an absolute legend you are! I'm definitely keeping hold of the faith even though I could happily eat an entire back of chocolate chip cookies right about now!!! Thank you so much for watching and thank you even more for commenting and making me laugh 🐴

[@annhans3535]

@@EssentiallyLivingtheDream 🤣💕

[@lumini3172]

Yes! Far too many people think that riding is the only thing you can do with horses when that simply is not true. Most of my enjoyment comes from working with my horses on the ground, bonding with them while we’re on the same eye level. Other than that taking short trips around the neighborhood in a cart is also a lot of fun and it is more lenient when it comes to weight because it is much easier to pull something than it is to carry it.

[@annhans3535]

@@lumini3172 I enjoy walking them and caring for them. Go thru ground routines with them. I just enjoy being around them.

[@geekchic3685]

Thank you for this, I've seen other 'equestrians' who are clearly not fit enough to ride and overweight, and the horse is so overweight they have a crest, and have now developed asthma and other ailments. It's good that not only are you making this video, but you're actively doing something to get you and your pony fit, I've been going to the gym recently to get myself fit and improve my core so I can start riding again.

[@KellieRudd1]

Your mare is beautiful. And so are you. Inside and out. God bless you. This world needs more of you!

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Oh thank you so much @KellieRudd1 you are so kind ❤❤❤ I'm so happy you think little Hope is beautiful, I think she is too. Her pet name is Dopey because she is so funny and not always on the same planet as us! Your comment has blown me away, thank you again so very much and I am so very humbled that you has subscribed to our little channel ❤❤❤

[@2kblueberries]

I just found your video. I just have to agree with the fact that you are a treasure and so brave to tackle this topic. I can totally relate to the concern of being too heavy for a horse. My 25 y.o. OTTB had a horrible colic and we made the decision for the last act of kindness to put him out of the agony. That was 5 years ago. Between mourning him and life circumstances I have packed on the pounds. I’m 55 and losing this weight is not easy. I’m now in a position to have a horse again, but being too fat for a horse is a huge concern for me. So thank you for taking us along on your journey. BTW, your video is so enjoyable to watch b/c of your editing skills, so kudos again 😊

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Oh wow @2kblueberries thank you so very much for such an amazing comment. You really have made my day and I'm so sorry that it has taken 2 days for me to reply but I got lost in filming and editing yesterday. I actually managed to find my old cart out of a long ago field. It was backbreaking! 🤯😂 I am so sorry that you lost your horse, it is truly the most awful thing to go through and the fact that you have sole responsibility to make the decision makes you question yourself forever more doesn't it. Know that you did the right thing and just try and remember the wonderful times. I would truly love it if you would follow along on this journey with us. I know its not much just to watch a few KZbin videos but I would really love it if we could all make a difference together. Again thank you so much. Hayley ❤️❤️❤️

[@3acrehomesteadin884]

Thank you for caring for your horse and putting her welfare first. I have been here before myself. After 40, we women tend to put on weight. It creeps up out of nowhere! Address hormones and try a low carb diet. The one thing that spikes in perimenopause is cortisol. As estrogen decreases our bodies are adjusting. So make sure it’s not an issue of just not watching your diet. It could be hormones. And addressing them is a game changer for managing weight past 40. I’ve been there. It is the worst to not be able to ride.

[@wallhagens2001]

Keto and intermittent fasting did the trick for me. Realized I’m a carb addict and finally broke the addiction. Best of luck to you!

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Oh my word @wallhagens2001 carbs are my downfall. I've managed to give up chocolate to a certain degree and had the shakes really bad for the first few days but no I've realised that i need brown bread! I have never even bothered with brown bread before? You are incredible for being able to kick the addiction. Gives me hope! Thank you so much for commenting and for watching :-)

[@InLawsAttic]

Me also. Lost 85 pounds on keto. Had to learn to cook better- but have the best desserts. No sugar. I use Carolyn Ke chum for great recipes. Dr. Berg has excellent advise for this diet.

[@carolinerowland-yn4fh]

Refreshing to see someone putting their horse first. Enjoyed this first video I’ve seen . Look forward to watching both your progress. At speed you are going you will definitely be at goal before her :)

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Thank you so much @carolinerowland-yn4fh to be at goal would be amazing wouldn't it. I have an 8 month membership so I feel like I'm in a bit of a race so that it doesn't go up to full price and becomes free to go! Im off to find our old cart tomorrow which I left in a field a while back. Fingers crossed it is still in a useable state so that I can put the little fatty on it! ❤

[@karenmackinnon7385]

Thanks for the great video, I feel your pain, I to have piled the weight on, hoping to get it off over the winter!!

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Oh heavens @karenmackinnon7385 its so hard though isn't it! I saw all the mince pies have started coming into the supermarkets as well and they are my kryptonite! I've got an 8 month WW membership so fingers crossed I can get the majority off in that time so I can go for free!

[@fontainerouge]

Been there. It's all about habits & changing taste. Picking the right food at the store, cooking even basic from scratch. Takes a long time but once new habits are formed, the weight stats off. Besides for riding, it is so much more enjoyable to be lighter on one's feet. You'll get there, you are strong willed !

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Thank you so much @fontainerouge for your incredibly positive words. The first couple of weeks has been so tough but I feel like I am getting through the really rough cravings period now. I'm not going to lie, I had the shakes after the first 3 days without chocolate! I definitely feel lighter and I am not so out of breath with is a huge bonus. Hope seems to have lost a bit too, ill have to get a weight tape on her and find out. She isn't so impressed though I don't think as she likes the easy life of just eating and sleeping! ❤❤❤

[@Makado14]

Good luck from America.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Thank you so much @Makado14 I find it absolutely incredible that people are watching my little channel from so far away! Thank you so much for commenting and for watching ❤❤❤❤❤

[@Makado14]

@@EssentiallyLivingtheDream you are so genuine, you're a breath of fresh air over here. I wish you all the best and your horse, too.

[@trippinggauntlet4520]

You've popped into my feed and I'm pleased you did. I don't ride but love horses.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Oh heavens @trippinggauntlet4520 I am beyond happy that I have popped up in your feed too! It is an absolute pleasure to have you along on this journey with us and hopefully youll get a regular horsey fix now! ❤❤❤❤❤

[@gdiup9241]

You are a doll. A track system sounds like the best option if you have the space! You know your ponies! So glad you have a farm.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Oh thank you so much @gdiup9241 ❤❤❤ Yes definitely going to be putting one in but we cant do a proper one because our field gets incredibly wet! We have 3 acres so fingers crossed that we be enough. At the moment we have far too much grass plus having a track means we can spray each bit and rest it.

[@gdiup9241]

@@EssentiallyLivingtheDream if it all goes well i bet a few others would be interested in how you created it! More content for you, cheers!

[@suzystone244]

Came across your channel. Beautiful upload. Transparency is key to our lives. Horsemanship is done with responsibility. I LOVE your candor. The realistic admission to a sensitive subject. Losing weight. I am personally a BIGGIE on ground work anyway. You will have the much better relationship with your girl. Laminitis is a bitch to deal with...omg awful. So I am here. From Northern California. ❤❤

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Oh heavens @suzystone244 your comment have just blown me away. Thank you from the bottom of my heart and I am so incredibly happy that you have found our little channel. Thank you ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ Hayley.

[@hannahm1256]

This was so interesting and thank you for being so open ❤️ xx

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

What a lovely comment @hannahm1256 and thank you so much for watching :-) I've always been the same. I cant see the point in pretending to myself, plus I think it would be great to have a little KZbin community that could all club together and help each other. Its also really good to have the added pressure of hundreds of people knowing you are on a weight loss journey so you don't give up! I've noticed the difference in Hope already in just these past 2 weeks so fingers crossed we will be fit enough and light enough to get out on some adventures soon :-)

[@annejarvis7002]

Just come across your channel. Well done for your honesty & research🎉 I hope you get back in the saddle soon (or carriage as some have suggested). Very best wishes ❤

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Thank you so much and I am so happy that you have discovered our little channel @annejarvis7002 . I absolutely love researching the most random of things but I'm autistic so I guess it comes with the package :-) I have a little cart but it has been off the road for about 8 years after it was in a bit of an accident with a friend. If I can get hold of a harness then ill see what Hope thinks of the whole idea. She is very opinionated! ❤❤❤ Thank you again so much for commenting and watching and i would love you to follow us on our journey :-)

[@Isobel201]

you could train her to drive a cart? I do that because I'm too heavy to ride.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Oh my word @Isobel201 I never thought of that! What a fantastic idea! Thank you, Im going to get onto that straight away, I'm sure I can pick up a cob sized harness quite cheaply.

[@user-wu6yj9fx1z]

That mare is pretty darn stout and surely looks like she can carry a person of your stature. You don’t too look heavy to me at all

[@susanchaney5059]

I love your honesty!! I don't have a weight issue with my Tennessee Walking Horse but other concerns (not a great rider) and keeping weight off him as he's insulin resistant. Best luck on your journey and I just subscribed so will happily cheer you on!!

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Thank you so much for subscribing @susanchaney5059 that means such a lot to me ❤🐴❤ Oh I would love to see your horse, I bet he is absolutely beautiful! Never say you are not a great rider, you love and care for your horse and there are millions of people in the world that wouldn't have a clue if they suddenly found themselves on horseback 😂😊❤ Again thank you sooooo much for subscribing and hopefully the videos will get better and better ❤

[@conniewolf7300]

I wish everyone followed this rule! It's sad how many people overload their horses!

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

I think one of the main problems is that they don't realise. I really do think it should be a thing that we check weights on a regular basis just like how we track calories on a diet. ❤️

[@janvas7690]

Morning I’ve just stumbled across your channel what a delight! So glad you have highlighted the weight of horse and rider! I’ve witnessed some awful sights. So thank you from this moment on I will be following you from now on!❤

[@susanmarston5475]

How I admire for thinking of your horse you are a special.Lady

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Thank you so much @susanmarston5475 I do love her so much even though she is a bit full on sometimes :-) I saved her life when she was born and then she had to be bottle fed. When she was 3 my horse died and Hopes owner gave her to me as a gift. Ill never forget that day, we are like 2 peas in a pod 🐴

[@susanmarston5475]

@@EssentiallyLivingtheDream She is your soul mate and you love her and she loves you She is a beautiful mare.I have loved horses all my life but could never provide their needs to own one but with beautiful people who own them like yourself I can look and share their beauty thank you

[@EvelynTokamp]

Thank you for your video, it is both enlightening and enjoyable. As I need to lose 8 kg (am 5.1, 70 kg & in my late sixties) and wish to take up riding again, this video will help me to start cutting down on food in the evening., which led to the added kilos. Special diet NO - will eat everything including crisps and chocolate, just less and not in the evening. When I miss masticating in the evening, past experience tells me that pieces of carrot and cucumber can help quench that. Cut them in small pieces and mix on a plate, chuck a little vinegar and herbs on top. Best wishes to you from the NL & to all here who wish to lose the extra pounds!

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Thank you so much @EvelynTokamp and please do get back into horses. They are in our blood and I don't think we can ever be truly happy without knowing there is one there to hear all of your troubles and concerns. They never judge you either! It was really hard to cut out the chocolate and Ill be honest, I had the shakes after day 3 which was nice very nice at all. The cravings have mostly stopped now but if it was handed to me id eat the lot! Pieces of carrot and cucumber actually sound really nice so ill try that. I have discovered tuna fritters which you can make in no time at all and are incredibly filling. 1 can of tuna drained 20g self raising flour 1 large egg All mixed in a bowl, seasoned and fried in a pan with one of those 1 calorie sprays. It makes about 5 fritters and its tough to eat them all. Very nice though! 🐴

[@EvelynTokamp]

@@EssentiallyLivingtheDream Thanks a lot for your reply & the recipe :) , will definitely try - though I`ve never heard about 1 calorie spray ...

[@hayleystrutt2422]

Hi, I am also in the process of trying to lose some weight so that I can ride again. It goes on so easily but is so hard to come off. Keep up the good work. I love your horses, I have always had a soft spot for coloured horses. 😊

[@MrsOveata]

Bless your heart for putting your horse first. I lost quite a few pounds by eating less carbs. I ate a small piece of low fat meat protein and salad. Cut out bread, ice cream, cookies etc. I watch a nutritionist named Dr. Becky Gillaspy on youtube. She has lists of food you should eat and weekly grocery lists and recipes to make. That part you pay a small fee but worth it. Lots of low carb challenges. Sounds like you are on your way. Good luck!

[@406dn7]

Good luck with your health journey. Regarding everything else, I am a fairly large, fit man, weighing ~210#. I have likely been in some violation of the 20% rule with two of the horses, I've owned. Like everything, it depends on many things. How, long is the ride? How hard is the ride? Is the horse ridden every day, for most of the day? It is the last assumption that the cavalry based the 20% rule on. I've had horses over two decades. They have remained sound well into their 20's. So, if the percentage they are carrying is say, 22.5%, it is very likely that you can figure out a way to ride the horse. One of my horses is an easy keeper. What worked well for me, when he was on an irrigated pasture, is a grazing muzzle. This allowed him to graze all day, without gaining weight. I monitored him and would leave it on for a few days, and take it off for a couple, as needed.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Thank you so much for your comment @406dn7 and for watching. I think most of us have been in violation of the rule at some point in our life. I've had to jump on small ponies to get them back home when riders have been injured and helped break some that were definitely a bit small for me even when I was thin! I think it just helps to be mindful of these things doesn't it? I've been researching into the 20% rule and about the cavalry quite a bit since I started making this video and there are absolutely loads of things that affect a horses carrying capacity that I didn't even realise! I made a more educational video about it a few days ago, I'm not sure if you've seen it but here's the link if you haven't and would like to: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bIGbl3qLjq2IZrM Again thank you so much for commenting and with such good advice and feedback. Hayley ❤

[@nicolecourt7829]

Hoo i want to be in your group ! That will be so motivating to be not alone to loose or try to…. And we’ll have the same motivation…horses ! ❤👍🐴

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Oh @nicolecourt7829 you have just made my entire week! Let's do this together!!! This can be our weekly check in ❤❤❤🐴

[@wendydavies1301]

I have started taking Ozempic, and I've lost 1.5 stone in 4 weeks. It is really worth it. If you get in touch with Juniper, they give an over the phone consultation. They then send a prescription to a chemist of your choice. It is not the brand name but has all the same active ingredients as the branded one. I am so happy with it. Good luck. I know how difficult it is to lose it.

[@melaniesheen1642]

I've found that since hitting my 40s, the weight goes on so easy and is so much harder to shift, especially now with the menopause, I also am limited to the exercises I can do since I've permanent knee mobility issues from an old riding accident, I follow the content creator ' Broccoli Mum' who shows simple but filling recipes for weight loss, can't believe I'm losing weight and eating choc cookies everyday, they're made from sweet potatoes, It's so refreshing to see someone like you who actually cares about their horses' well-being and wanting to be the fittest you can be not just for your own health but for your horses too,

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Oh heavens @melaniesheen1642 I'm 43 this month so I don't think I'm far off menopause either! Chocolate cookies?????????????? Oh my word I am going to have to find that recipe within the next 20 seconds and I will definitely be following 'Broccoli Mum' also so thank you from the bottom of my heart for that tip! ❤❤❤ Ill be honest I don't think I would have even noticed that I had put on so much weight if it wasn't for Hope and the sudden realisation that I was too heavy for her. I know there are people that think of them as either sports equipment or a toy to blast around on but I honestly see them as dear friends. I don't know if you've seen Toby my blind horse in any of my other videos but he is 44 now and I genuinely don't know what I will ever do without him when he goes. Again, thank you so very much for watching and for such a helpful, wonderful comment and it would be wonderful if you could follow us on this crazy pony KZbin journey 🐴

[@beachbumetta]

Great video and loving your personality. Think I’ll check out more of your videos. 😊

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Oh yay thank you so much @beachbumetta that means such a lot! I would love you to come along with us on this crazy pony journey! 🐴

[@katherinewheatcroft3617]

Ditch the tack. Start by riding in the field with a head collar. You will feel better. Your horse will be moving. It will help motivate you to eat proper food and de-stress. I don't know what it's like where you are but walkinh out with your horse, jogging with him trotting, may sound hard work but with him trotting along with you it's fun, not at all like setting off to exercise alone. As you lose weight, start riding with tack as often as you can. Feel good about yourself and it will become easier. Detoxing from sugars is hard. Grapes for women are not the best fruit. Don't take short cuts they don't work. I wish you all the best. Keep smiling.

[@firstnamelastname-uq9hr]

I am in the same place as you, so i thought of breaking my horse to harness!!!!!!Its a completely new way of going for you and your lovely cob. You get lots more exercise long reigning ect, and him too,and if done right what fun you both can have until you are what you have worked out as the right weight to ride again, just a thought,i brought my horse synthetic harness, did loads of research on vehicles suitable, as long as everything is safe and done safely as regards to harness fit, attachment to safe vehicles that have been checked out by someone who is knowledgeable of such, its all research and practise, and something to focus on to stop you from thinking about food, diets, what you should and shouldn't be drinking ect. There's lots on line to inspire you and hopefully take the right road to sucess, and possibly local help or groups to go to yourself at first, just a thought that might help, good luck in whatever you do , keep us all posted, there is a lot of people in just the same place, we all need ideas to get started.X

[@barbarabeucher9269]

I really don't know about your weight as I live in the US and we have different measurements as you possibly know. But I do appreciate what you are doing to looking after your body as well as your pony. I've had weight issues over the years also and I did what you are doing so keep up the good work. Treat yourself to a short ride at a walk daily until you are happy with your weight. It will be good for the both of you mentally and physically. Best of luck !❤❤

[@karolinadovehook3776]

Thank you for explaining this, it was a bit confusing whether tack is included or not, if horse if overweight or is actually fit. This helps a lot for my young mare who will soon be under saddle and i do need get weight off a bit since shes not in work for too long

[@katipohl2431]

Love and greetings from Germany. Happiness is riding on the back of horses. You will be able to do your weight loss.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Thank you so much for watching our videos @katipohl2431 ❤🐴😍 I love that you are watching all the way from Germany. I have visited a few times and it is always so beautiful.

[@auggiedoggiesmommy1734]

I am a lifetime member of WW since 1997 and lost 40 lbs. and have kept it off by following that program to this day.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Oh my word really? That is the most incredible achievement @auggiedoggiesmommy1734 , well done! What did you find was the best thing to eat when you were craving chocolate? And can I just say how beautiful your dog is in your profile picture. ❤❤❤

[@auggiedoggiesmommy1734]

@@EssentiallyLivingtheDream I would make chocolate mousse and measure out small portions into cups. In the winter I would make homemade hot chocolate using the recipe on the back of Hershey’s cocoa can and using 1/2 skim and half whole milk. Also chocolate fudge ice cream bars …they are usually pretty low in calories and since they are individually wrapped it was easier to control. In the U.S. we have a brand called Healthy Choice that are not terrible, really low calorie. I started a power yoga practice and really got into the idea of not eating sugar and worked HARD and eliminated it from my diet ..it took a full 30 days before I wasn’t craving it, but I have broken that recently a bit! Once you get rid of sugar fruit tastes sweeter. You can also dip fruit in chocolate and limiting portions is key. Mix a few almonds, raisins and chocolate chips (I use milk chocolate). I often find it’s better for me to just not have it in the house because it’s so tempting. Good luck!

[@richard5652]

well done

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Thank you so much @richard5652 that means a lot and thank you so much for watching :-)

[@user-cn2dx2cr9r]

why don't you drive your mare. Just buy some harness and a cart and drive her. The enjoyment you will get is massive. Your mare already knows word commands.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Thank you so much @user-cn2dx2cr9r ! Yes she is really good with voice commands. I saved her life when she was born and then she was bottle fed so she thinks she is more human than pony. I swear she can understand English! I can sort a cart no problem but the harness is probably out of my budget at the moment but keep watching to see me sort all that out too! Thank you so much for your comments and thank you for giving me a great suggestion too!

[@user-cn2dx2cr9r]

Hi, I am so pleased you are going to drive your mare. I will subscribe to your videos, so I don't miss any future ones. I really enjoyed your video and I always try to help if I can.

[@sidilicious11]

Going for walks with yr horse could be fun and a good way to get exercise and shed some pounds.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

I took your advice a few hours ago and we went for a beautiful walk @sidilicious11 , I also filmed it so that will definitely be in tomorrow evenings vlog! Have to say I was absolutely shattered when I we got back to the field and Hope was ready for another nap! 🤣🤣🤣 Bruce bought our foal with us which was amazing because it was his first time properly out of the field since we rescued him aaaaaaaaand Simon bought the old man along too so he wasn't on his own and he really enjoyed it too! Thank you so much for putting the idea into my brain, for watching my video and for such a helpful comment 🐴

[@sidilicious11]

@@EssentiallyLivingtheDream yay! Sounds like you all had a nice outing. Looking forward to the video👍🐴🐴🐴🐴

[@Rosebud65]

Your blonde curls are stunning!

[@juliaforsyth8332]

New research says the rule should be 30%. The BMI scale is also seriously flawed. Ultra-fit athleted deemed obese because of muscle mass.

[@dreamcatcher3861]

You’re such a lovely soul. Well done in losing 11lb in 2 weeks, that’s amazing 🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻 I’m sure you’ll feel so much better in time, however, you’re beautiful no matter your weight, i just wanted to tell you. 🙌🏼

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Oh my word what a beautiful comment @dreamcatcher3861 thank you so very much, you have made my evening ❤❤❤ you also have the most beautiful hair, wow its just beautiful!

[@dreamcatcher3861]

@@EssentiallyLivingtheDream thank you 🙏🏻 Sadly I have metastatic breast cancer (terminal), I’ve been fighting for 8 years now. I was just on hormone blocking meds which slowed the cancers growth for 7 years but then it mutated and I have to have palliative chemo now, so I lost my hair. I think that was the most devastating part of this disease so far. I loved my hair. I took after my granny who was Irish, so, red hair and freckles. Believe me, there’s nothing worse than wigs, they never look quite right unfortunately. I always believe, lift people up, because you never know what they’re going through. I’m glad I made you smile today. It means I’ve done something good. Also, never accept a prognosis as fact, I was given 3 to 6 months to live 8 years ago, I’m still not planning on going anywhere yet. 🫶🏻🙏🏻✨

[@MiriamPendleton]

You could train Hope to drive then you could exercise her while you continue to lose weight. It's really hard to lose weight as an older person. I've been at it for about 3 months and have only lost 1 stone. I'm sticking with it though.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Oh wow! Well done for losing a stone, that is an incredible achievement @MiriamPendleton ! I actually went yesterday and collected my cart! Its in a bit of a state but if you tune in at 6pm you'll see the full video ❤😍🐴 We need to stick to this diet Miriam!

[@conniewolf7300]

Unfortunately many people treat animals like they're objects instead of living, breathing souls! The Grand Canyon won't let anyone ride unless their weight is safe for the horse and rider!

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Absolutely @conniewolf7300 I remember years ago being told by a very influential rider that horses were like cars and they should be upgraded regularly so that you always have one that is fit for purpose. I've never forgotten that to be honest because it shocked me so much. I'm not sure if you've seen him in my vlogs but I have a blind 44 year old pony who is as fit as a fiddle and loves life still. I've had him since I was a kid and last winter he really struggled before we took on this field. I had so many people tell me I should just just put him to sleep ! Absolutely not! He even took my youngest son to his Prom in July, here's the video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6XMl6GNr8Rkp8U and he's looking the best he has in the last few years. I think its all down to just loving them and doing the best that we can for them isn't it. ❤️

[@sphhyn]

That’s so responsible of you ! ❤ By the way , funny how you use so many different measurements. I am not in the UK and have no what 2 stone and 14 hands are 😅

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Thank you so much @sphhyn and Oh no! Let me turn it into different measurements for you :) A stone is 14lbs or 6.35kg so 2 stone is 28lbs or 12.7kg And 14hh means 14 hands high which is the same as 57 inches or 4 ft 8 inches ❤❤❤ I hope this helps and thank you so much for watching and for commenting 🐴

[@april5666]

Great information, clearly delivered with research shown. Thank you - new subscriber here :)

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Do you know @april5666 you have just made my whole day with this comment. Thank you so much and it is a pleasure to have you along for this journey with us :-)

[@robertshrewsbury5067]

Congratulations.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Thank you so much @robertshrewsbury5067 and a huge thank you for watching :-)

[@seiadias7547]

Yeap, bem Brave and loss Weight and your horse too, 😉👍

[@hw-art]

I just lost 3 kg in a week. How? I had a wisdom tooth removed and, because of what the novocain did to my jaw nerves, couldn't open my mouth over more than a teaspoon. That basically meant that I could take in only yoghurt and veggie smoothies. No bread, no cheese, no meat. LOL - try that. It certainly had an effect on me. ;-) Other than that, cudos for minding what weight is put on your horse.

[@josephinestecak4945]

Too many people forget to make sure the horse has plenty of bone (measurement around under knee)

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Yes absolutely @josephinestecak4945 ! I did a full video all about the 20% rule this week, here is the link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bIGbl3qLjq2IZrM I've put exactly what affects the weight carrying capacity of horses and one of the main things is the circumference of the cannon bone. Even rough ground can affect them massively.

[@laurafratoni7931]

Your horse is very overweight. If she wasn’t, she could carry you no problem.

[@homesteadlife2235]

A controlled study of adults who had ideal body weight and who had never gained weight showed that the only way they could get those people to gain was by feeding them chocolate.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

I bet they were then left totally addicted to chocolate like I am! 😂😂😂 Oh @homesteadlife2235 you really have just made me chuckle. I could happily live on chocolate. Need some fruit? Cadbury fruit and nut!!! 😂😂😂

[@equestrial44]

Use a grazing muzzle. You’ll see her weight drop within a week.

[@lauraclayton5635]

You are so close, I suspect short rides with lots of trotting with you posting would be good exercise for both of you and the benefits would outway the risk. From a 183# vet with a 14h3" horse, that needs to get out and ride more, not less. Good luck!

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Thank you so much @lauraclayton5635 I really do appreciate you commenting on here because my word I do worry about her. I don't know if you can tell from the video but she has a tilted pelvis too. Her mom was only 12.2hh and she rejected her when she was born. It sounds crazy but I then saved her life and when she was 3 she was given to me because my horse died. She genuinely thinks she's a human ❤🐴 I'm going to have my friend come and give her a treatment and see what she thinks, she's a specialist massage therapist and she really knows her stuff.

[@archangel807]

Good stables here dont allow riders on their horses who weigh over 200lb......Just a rule to protect their horses.....That is when reality hits and it is realized that better health is needed....

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Oh if only more stables and establishments could do the same, then it would be a much more well known. Could you imagine how much weight people would lose if there really was a limit everywhere you took your horse. Thankyou so much for your comment and for watching @archangel807 ❤️

[@jeanettesnell1817]

If you have safe roads near you, longreining would be great for both of you

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

The roads by us are quite busy @jeanettesnell1817 but there is about 3km's of track that we could go around. I know I've got a second lunge line in the back of the horsebox so Ill find that out this week :-) Thank you so very much for watching and thank you even more for giving me some suggestions. Hayley.

[@colleenlouise4521]

your horse has strong bones , is a sturdy looking horse. no doubt you could ride this horse, you are not too fat. I see people much bigger riding a much lighter horse.

[@nicolecourt7829]

Hello 👋! I’m too much weighed too… but I’m 61 and it’s difficult to loose now… I ride small rides once or twice a week and I dismount 1 or 2 km before home. And I walk with my horse.. this way it’s not too hard for him he his a big horse, 1,75m. What is a stone ? Pond ? Kilo ?

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

A few people have said that about different weight and height measurements in different countries @nicolecourt7829 . Thank you so much for your comment and it would be amazing to have you follow us on this journey. A stone is the same as 14 pounds (lb) so half a stone is 7 pounds (lb). A kilo is 1000 grams or 2.3 pounds. We also measure horses in hands (hh) so hope is 14.1hh which I think transfers to 1.43m. Its very confusing isn't it!!! I love walking with my horse too! I think I will take Hope for a lovely long walk this week now that you have inspired me ❤🐴

[@nicolecourt7829]

@@EssentiallyLivingtheDream thank you for your answer. Yes it’s very confusing 😂…I think I wil use the google converter… have a nice walk with your horse, see you next week 😘

[@elizabethhall8254]

You don’t look fat to me. You have a stout draft typ horse gypsy banner I believe . He could easily hold you

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Thank you so much @elizabethhall8254 that's a lovely thing to say ❤❤❤ My phone keeps telling me that I am obese though which is never nice to see. Hope is quite a good strong type and yes she is a gypsy but she is a lot smaller than she looks as she is only 14.1hh and she is soooooooo fat! I'm not quite sure how she got so fat to be honest because she has never been that big before! I took her on a long walk today because she wasn't feeling the lunging bless her and I filmed some of it so that will definitely be in tomorrows vlog! :-)

[@juliaforsyth8332]

@@EssentiallyLivingtheDream Don't forget the BMI scale is seriously flawed.

[@SharonJones-ej9bz]

Is your pony actually 455kg earlier in the video you were speculating she could be 550kg, which would mean you could ride her using 20% rule? Sorry if I’ve misunderstood I was using cc and the captions are not always that good. My riding pony is over 550kg and looks a very similar stamp to yours

[@Spyrit2011]

Are draft type breeds even under the same requirements as they are bred to carry heavier weights?

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Yes @Spyrit2011 its exactly the same and I've made a video that explains all of this in full detail along with all the other factors that affect the amount a horse can carry. It surprising how much does really affect them, even down to the ground that they are on. Here is the link if you would like to have a look: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bIGbl3qLjq2IZrM With Draft breeds they are naturally just so much bigger and their ideal weight is so much higher than a standard riding pony that their 20% weight carrying capacity is a lot higher. Thank you so much for watching my video and for adding such a good comment. Hayley ❤❤❤

[@angelaclements1244]

She's a lovely pony . Why don't you lead her out and go long walks and that way you'll both lose weight. You don't actually look overweight tbh. You do need to be careful of diabetes. Im 7st 5 walk for bloody miles , always been able to eat what i want without gaining weight . NEVER thought i was a candidate for type 2 diabetes but apparently i was wrong.. My love of Starbucks and co to unwind after work i think may have been my downfall. Its complete sh*t. All the good tasting things are sweet! Find me a carrot that tastes as good as chocolate. I like a mars bar.

[@user-cn2dx2cr9r]

I've started the carnivore diet and have already lost one and a half stone. If you drive the mare she will also lose the weight.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

My friend has been telling me about that diet @user-cn2dx2cr9r and she absolutely swears by it too! I am definitely going to be sorting out a cart this week, not sure if funds will stretch to a harness just yet though?

[@user-cn2dx2cr9r]

Have a look for auctions of carriages and harness . I used to drive a pair of 16.3hh up to 17.2hh horses commercially, 7 days a week, I also broke them to drive and ride. We sometimes bought collars etc from an auction at Reading in the UK. But we always bought English harness from the harness maker who everyone thought made the best harness there was to buy. But I bought some good harness from an auction too. Good luck with your driving. I'm glad I could help.

[@bookmouse2719]

What if you rode her without a saddle, it would be lighter.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Very true @bookmouse2719 but unfortunately even though she looks like a ploddy dopey cob, as soon as we are out she fires round like she's in a race! She's also so wide at the moment that I think shed put my hip out! :-D

[@AaZz-x7p]

why do adults buy ponies to ride in any case?

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Great question @AaZz-x7p I didnt but Hope, she was given to me when my Friesian died. That said, I have always prefered pony paces to the long strides of a horse plus its so much more fun. Just got to get us both fit and healthy so we can go back to fun rides and hacking over the valleys.

[@GFSTaylor]

@@AaZz-x7p Shorter adults, like the poster, find it easier to mount smaller animals, and to reach heads to bridle them. Plus the legs will be in a better position on a smaller animal. Ponies are not just for kids. Adults have been riding ponies for centuries.

[@TammySaj-zm6kr]

You are not Fat. You may be alittle overweight, but never fat 😮😮😮

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Thankyou so much @TammySaj-zm6kr my BMI says I'm obese which is really scary. The problem is I carry it mostly round my middle and I have skinny legs! I look really thin if you are behind me lol! Thank you so much for watching and thank you even more for such a lovely comment :-)

[@user-cn2dx2cr9r]

You not too heavy to drive her.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Thank you so much for your comment @user-cn2dx2cr9r and I am definitely going to look into driving. It has been a looooooong time since I did anything like that! Look out for future vlogs of me getting a cart :-)

[@user-cn2dx2cr9r]

I will. I can't wait.

[@Lauren-vd4qe]

I wd think that horse is much more overweight than you are! 1200 lbs for that horse? oh my; i think it shd weigh 900 lbs, perhaps it needs one of those grazing muzzles for limited grazing.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Thank you so much for your comment @Lauren-vd4qe and you are very right she is definitely obese! She is hard work in general with a lot of things and there's no chance of keeping a muzzle on her because she eats through the bottom of them! I've just bought the first lot of electric rope and just the basic plastic posts for now so I'm going to fence the field off at some point this week if I can get 5 minutes. You should see how wide she is from the front! She's huge!

[@Lauren-vd4qe]

@@EssentiallyLivingtheDream well some people like the chunky type breeds of horses, for myself, i like the American Saddlebred.

[@sandradillwith7666]

Hi Haley, do you need an assistant?

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

@sandradillwith7666 I cant even remember what I've gone into a room for! I'm a liability most of the time 🤣🤣🤣

[@sandradillwith7666]

@@EssentiallyLivingtheDream I take that as yes?

[@ngc4486diane]

u don't look that over weight to me and that pony looks like she's the sort that could carry a hefty farmer all day hunting, just start riding her take it slow both get fit together, it will do u both the world of good, don't forget a good riders more balanced and easier to carry. The pony is far to fat that's true, u on the other hand no.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

Awwwww thank you so much @ngc4486diane that is so lovely of you. She is genuinely obese for the first time in her life and I am horrified! Problem is she is really quite a small pony, she is only 14.1hh she just has always looked a lot bigger than she is. I am going to try and dig my cart out tomorrow and see if I can get it out of the field I left it in a while back. Wish me luck! Im thinking that driving her would get the weight off a bit quicker plus she can help me move some of the ragwort bundles we have wrapped in the field. Oh it never ends!!! Hopefully we will have a mild winter with not too much rain... Oh who am I kidding, this is England! We are going to end up flooded!

[@lizzegerius9642]

20 percent rule heap of garbage. If your horse is fit and you have a good balanced riding style not a problem. Quarter horses carry fully grown men all day. Sorry a 17hh sports horse is not a weight carrier. Cobs are weight carriers. Get her core fit get her back muscles up then ride her.

[@EssentiallyLivingtheDream]

You are so right @lizzegerius9642 I meant to say Shire Horse but back in the day when we used to compete, we had Connemara's and sports horses so that must have been a Freudian slip! I recorded this a couple of weeks back (computer problems held me up big time, all fixed now thankfully) and I've been lunging everyday and I'm about to start long reigning if I cant find the other lunge line on the back of the lorry. There's definitely a big improvement in her just over that time plus I've just hit my first stone of weight loss thank heavens! There's just no 'quick fix' is there, plus we still have sooooooooo much more to do at the field. We are putting in a new gate today so there is easier access out so I think that will be a major help too. Why couldnt she have been a hand bigger? I have always loved riding a pony though :-)

[@lizzegerius9642]

@EssentiallyLivingtheDream just do what you know is right. I understand totally the weight thing. I have 2 Anglo Arabs that are definitely not weight carriers, so I have a nice trainer who is riding them in for me. My quarter horse can carry over 100 kilos he is like a tank. So I can ride him no problem. I am about 80 kilos due to health problems. The last few years have been awful.. only enough energy to muck out and feed and fix what they break. But I am now on the road to recovery I need to lose about a stone now. I live in Germany and for the last 8 years I have been tired. Pushing the doctor to find out why.. he just said it was in my head.. until my leg went numb. No pulse. I had a thrombosis that blocked my main artery to my foot. Finally they did checks to find out why.. omg i was born with a hole in my heart. By all accounts I should be dead. 59 years with this is a bloody miracle. It's all fixed now. So hoping my energy comes back. I lived this long cos I have horses to care for.. that's what I think. You are brilliant.. keep on going. Hugs from a very lucky Yorkshire lass living my dream retired in Germany. Xxxx

[@annejarvis7002]

​@lizzegerius9642 I hope you continue to improve. Sadly my health is deteriorating. But I enjoy equestrian vlogs. Just stumbled across this channel. Sending much love & best wishes to all those dieting for the benefit of their horses❤

[@lizzegerius9642]

@annejarvis7002 so sorry to hear that. I am almost 60 I have to carry on for another 20 years at least. My 2 youngest are 10. My thoughts and prayers are with you.