Imagine a backbend … while on a horse … while the horse is moving. Sound impossible? Not if you’re a vaulter!
Vaulting is an equestrian sport involving gymnastics on a moving horse. Flags, mills, scissors, and stands are moves that vaulters perform. While most people have only seen vaulting at a circus, it’s an activity derived from ancient Crete and Rome using bulls and horses. Vaulting today is recognized for teaching coordination, teamwork, balance, strength, and creativity.
WHAT DO YOU NEED?
Before getting on a horse, vaulting positions should be mastered on a mat and a vaulting barrel. When vaulters get proficient, they move to a horse, ensuring the need for a team. To vault on a live horse, you need not only the horse, but a longueur and a coach.
Vaulting judge Mark Griffi this describes the contrast between practicing on stationary equipment versus a living horse as “the difference between working on a dry noodle versus a wet noodle.”
Freedom of movement is critical to vaulters and different from other riding disciplines. Vaulters can’t wear chaps or boots—footwear is socks or gymnastics slippers. Did you notice there was no mention of headgear? Hats and helmets obstruct vision, can snag on the surcingle, and could even hit a teammate when sharing space on a horse.
Bu hikaye Young Rider dergisinin May-June 2023 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Giriş Yap
Bu hikaye Young Rider dergisinin May-June 2023 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
HELP! MY FAMILY DOESN'T LIKE HORSES
If your family isn’t into your hobby, here are some tips for how to cope.
ORLOV TROTTER
Although rare, this Russian breed showcases true talent in harness as well as under saddle.
TRICK TRAINING
Make the most of the off season while building a relationship with your horse.
TRAIN THE PATTERN
Train a solid pattern on your barrel racing horse with tips from a trainer.
TRACK ATTACK
Learn two ways to ride a bending line of jumps or poles with confidence.
PROTECTOR OF THE NAVAJO
A horseback quest to locate a mountain lion ties a boy to his cultural and ancestral roots.
My 100-Mile Ride
A small rider goes on a big journey.
Cold Weather CaRe
Follow these Pony Club tips to ride and enjoy your horse all winter long.
All About Donkeys
These loveable longears” are a little different than horses, but their bonds with humans and other equines are second to none!
Deck the Stalls
These ornaments (or horse treats) are fa-la-la-la-fabulous!