Vaulting 101

Often described as gymnastics performed on horseback, vaulting’s origins can be traced back to Roman games which included acrobatic displays performed on cantering horses. Modern vaulting was developed in post-war Germany as a means to introduce children to equestrian sport, and it remains a popular training and competitive endeavor all across Europe. Modern vaulting competitors are judged on their ability to smoothly execute compulsory movements demonstrating strength, flexibility, and balance—making sure to face all four directions and cover all parts of the horse from neck to croup—during their routines. They are also evaluated on the technical difficulty and artistic expression associated with freestyle routines.

Learn more about competing in vaulting with US Equestrian!

Recognized National Affiliate Association

Learn more about vaulting by visiting Equestrian Vaulting USA at equestrianvaulting.org . There are more than 141 EVUSA vaulting clubs and affiliates in United States serving over 1,200 members. The EVUSA provides information and educational vaulting materials, trains vaulting judges, provides procedures and standards for testing vaulters for medals at five different skill levels, establishes and maintains contacts in the international vaulting community, and facilitates EVUSA member participation in international exchanges and competitions.