Q: What is vaulting?
A: Vaulting is gymnastics on horseback, performed on a 20m diameter circle on a longe line. There are two element in vaulting: the Compulsories and the Kür, which can be done in three different forms/divisions (team, individual, and pas-de-deux).
Q: Who can do vaulting?
A: Anyone! Vaulting is great for anyone who is looking for an athletic activity and loves horses. No gymnastics or horse-related experience is neccessary. In some areas of the US, even therapuetic vaulting for the disabled is available. Vaulting teaches teamwork, confidence, and trust, along with athletic qualities such as balance, coordination, and strength.
Q: Is vaulting safe?
A: Just like any other sport, vaulting has it's risks. However, it is taught with large emphasis on safety and we take all precautions to ensure it! Vaulting has an excellent safety record, and all activities are watched closely to make sure that vaulters have a safe experience. We vault on soft footing, on well-trained horses, in a controlled environment. Accidents do happen, but it's not very commmon in everyday vaulting.
Q: Can vaulting benefit my riding?
A: Yes! Like we said above in "Who can do Vaulting", vaulting is very beneficial to any kind of riding or athletic sport.
Q: Where can I get involved in vaulting?
A: There are vaulting clubs throughout the US, most of which are listed on the American Vaulting Association website (www.americanvaulting.org). Feel free to contact any club, we are always looking for more members of the vaulting community!