About

The concept of vaulting is to mount a moving horse, perform a delicate gymnastics routine, and then gracefully dismount. The horse wears a a padded leather belt called a 'surcingle' with two handles attached, laid over a saddle-like pad . Attached to the horse's bridle is a 50 foot line with a 'longeur' at the other end who stands in the center of the circle guiding the horse.

Competition

Similar to ice skating or gymnastics, vaulting has both compulsory events and freestyle routines called "Kürs" set to music. Vaulters can compete in individual, pairs, and team events on the national and international level.

Competition is divided up by skill level. Kids start on a slowly walking horse. Gradually they advance to trot and canter speeds. Everybody also practices compulsories and new moves on the 'barrel,' a 4-legged padded drum. Vaulters must test to advance to the next level of competition. They are judged according to international standards for grace, quality, quantity and difficulty of movement.

Vaulting is recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale & the American Horse Shows Association.

Rewards

Vaulting helps teach communication, leadership & teamwork skills. Vaulters also gain confidence, balance & coordination. They also learn horsemanship by grooming and caring for their horses, and sneaking them snacks & hugs!

"It helps with their self-sesteem. Overall, it helps their concentration and focus... [The kids] get to a high level (of competence) quickly. It really boosts their ego."

History

Vaulting began around 2000 B.C. in Minos with the art of jumping over charging bulls. The Romans used it as part of their basic riding instruction; without saddles & stirrups, mounting was a challenge! In medieval Europe it was used to train knights in the arts of horsemanship. Modern cavalries also used vaulting as a foundation for riding.

Gradually the exercises becamse stylized, and were practiced in the gymnasium instead of on horses. This is the modern sport of vaulting on a "horse" in gymnastics. Another outgrowth found its way into the circus, where it is still a popular attraction.

In the 1920's, vaulting became a sport in Germany, with competition by the mid-50's. The first rules were worked out & published in 1958 - the birth date of modern competition. The AVA was founded in 1969, the first international meet was in 1978, and international rules were published in 1983. Today, vaulting is one of the fastest growing youth sports in the world.