Vaulting

​​Vaulting is one of the oldest known forms of equestrian sports, dating back to around 2,000 years ago. The name “vaulting” actually comes from the french “la voltige”. 

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To give you a general idea of what vaulting is, it is more or less gymnastics/dance but on a horse. When vaulting, the horse is travelling in a circle to a lunge line while either walking, trotting or cantering, depending on what level the vaulter is at. A good vaulter needs to have a good amount of strength, flexibility and balance.

 

When competing a vaulter performs a compulsory and a freestyle. The compulsory is a set of moves that the vaulter has to demonstrate in a specific order, while the freestyle is a set of moves that the vaulter can choose and perform as a musical interpretation. Freestyles can be performed either individually, in duos or also trios.

 

Vaulting also tends to improve a rider's seat a lot as it helps riders to get a better feeling of balance, rhythm, coordination and confidence.