is vaulting safe?
The 'Three Points of Vaulting Safety" is the basis for its excellent safety record and differentiates vaulting from other equestrian sports: controlled environment, safety training and nature of the sport/horse. Statistically, vaulting is the safest of the 7 disciplines recognized by the FEI (Federation Equestre International). WHY AREN'T HELMETS USED?
The condensed answer is that experts don't believe helmets improve the safety of a vaulter, but can actually increase the risk of injury. Helmets can get caught up in the equipment, impair equilibrium when upside down and make many moves physically more difficult to do. Helmets are sometimes used for special circumstances, particularly in our therapeutic work. DO YOU NEED YOUR OWN HORSE?
No need - the team shares in the care of the horses, their living space and the equipment, giving vaulters some responsibility for training with a living animal. It also gives families a chance to see the commitment needed to have their own. WHAT DO YOU NEED TO START VAULTING?
To participate with a certified coach, you'll be asked to purchase HCBC Insurance, useful for any equine activities for the year. Stretchy, close fitting clothing and water shoes or the equivalent are a must for the comfort of the horse. Come ready to learn about horses, vaulting & team-work. HOW OLD DO YO HAVE TO BE TO START VAULTING?
In general, we find 5 years a good age for the concentration, independence and focus required for our Tiny Tot program. An evaluation can be arranged to be sure. WHAT'S REQUIRED OF PARENTS/CAREGIVERS?
Parents of younger vaulters need to stay for the class unless special arrangements have been made. For drop-off classes, check-in's are done as needed to help your vaulter progress. At an event, parents are often needed to volunteer on the sidelines; most of the jobs don't require you to be comfortable with horses - the vaulters and coaches take care of them! |
WHAT KIND OF HORSES ARE USED?
Our horses are all very different, but share some important attributes - kind and willing temperament, even gaits, enjoyment of people, sturdy build and good health. DO YOU NEED TO KNOW HOW TO RIDE?
No you don't, though any skill in dance, gymnastics or riding is helpful. Vaulting is a safe way to develop your own balance and movement with the horse before you take the reins (and their mouth). Vaulting is a great complement to riding, and vice versa. how much does it cost?
Prices vary on the services we're providing so please check with us on your specific interests. Factors for classes and therapeutic sessions include the length, ratio of students to instructors and, and whether the time has been customized. Performances are offered to our larger community for a nominal fee that can be negotiated. Clinics are based on travel, length and requested needs. Team competition costs are shared between vaulters together with their individual registration fees. CAN ADULTS VAULT?
You're never too old if you can get on a horse - our adult class has a variety of ages, abilities and benefits for coming, including a different type of exercise, access to horses, improving riding skills and for the pure challenge of it! is vaulting affiliated with other groups?
The Equestrian Vaulting Association of BC (EVABC) offers certification for coaches/lungers as well as educational opportunities for vaulters and parents. Vault Canada is the National support organization. CANTRA - Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association offers certification for therapeutic vaulting. what is a barrel?
A barrel is a stationary substitute for the horse and an important piece of training equipment. It allows vaulters to practice when they're not on the horse and is used to develop and perfect moves to avoid undue roughness on the horses & improve safety for the athletes. |