I'm glad this message was posted, as I've been wondering about that
minimum weight requirement myself. I just got my AERC membership
application in the mail and must "declare myself" weightwise. I seem to
be borderline, so need clarification. Exactly what is included in the
count -- rider with boots & helmet, saddle, bridle, breastcollar,
emergency trail kit, okay. What about food? Water? These fluctuate
throughout the day, no? More clothing carried in winter than summer?
Raingear? How is the weight carried determined -- is there a scale at
the ridecamp where riders are weighed holding their tack, as are jockeys
at the track, or is it an honor system? If you need dead weight, what
kind do you get? Ankle weights? Weight plates? Are there rules
determining that?
Glenda & Lakota (you're not really thinking of putting weights on my back,
now, are you?)