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Equestrian Vaulting

A Team is the highest level of competition in the team division. A maximum of three vaulters may be on the horse at one time.

Introduction

Vaulting is a competitive sport where gymnastics and dance elements are performed to music on a moving horse.

Colorful and unique costumes create a festive competition.

Vaulting and seven other equestrian displines are the only horse sports recognized by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI).

It required a harmonious relationship with the horse and outstanding physical condition from the vaulter. Many different breeds and sizes of horses are used for vaulting.

Colorful and unique costumes create a festive competition.

The best horses are strong, calm, fit and kind, with a consistent gait. Vaulting routines include artistic mounts and dismounts, shoulder stands and handstands, carrying and lifting another vaulter, and kneeling and standing exercises.

History

Vaulting is a unique and growing sport with a rich history traced back Roman and Minoan cultures. It is a wonderful way to develop coordination, balance, strength, and creativity.

The stand is one of the seven required compulsory exercises.

Vaulters also develop leadership, team work and performance skills. It is used as an introduction to equestrian sports and is used for cross by riders in all disciplines to develop a natural seat, confidence, coordination and harmony with their horse.

International Vaulters compete in front of six judges. Three judges score the horse and three judges score the vaulter.

Vaulting Today

Vaulting can be done at any age or competition level.

Less experienced vaulters can compete on the vaulting barrel.

Inexperienced vaulters train and compete at the walk and advance to the trot.

The youngest vaulters compete and train at the walk. Spotters and side walkers are permitted in compeition.

The more experienced vaulters train and compete at the canter. Team, individual male, individual female, and Pas de Deux-or pairs-events are included at competitions.

The Pas de Deux is a dance created by two vaulters. Music interpretation makes this division a pleasure for spectators.

Vaulting is judged and both vaulters and their horses receive scores when they perform several different competition tests, depending on the event. Competition test may include compulsories, technical tests, and freestyle. Technique, music interpretation and level of difficulty can be scored elements.

Vauters train on the barrel to master new moves and to practice the integration and transitions of their dance routines.

The competition venue is a very controlled environment, with a fully-enclosed arena, a large consistent circle, and with very soft footing.

Vaulting is the only equestrian sport that has separate competition divisions for men and women. The vaulting freestyle is 60 seconds.

Additional Information

For additional information contact:

American Vaulting Association

The American Vaulting Association Friendship team travels around the country to demonstrate the sport of vaulting and educate audiences about our sport.