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1. Do I have to know how to ride a horse?
No. An experienced equestrian controls the horse on a longe line. Vaulters do not control the horse. In this setting, the
horse becomes an exotic type of gym equipment. How to be safe around horses is taught during class.
2. Will vaulting improve my riding?
Probably. Vaulting improves people's balance on a horse.
3. Is it safe?
Vaulting is one of the safest of equestrian sports. This is due to three factors: 1. riders do not control (and lose control)
of the horse; 2. horse and riders are in a contained, controlled environment; 3. vaulting arenas have soft footing. Most
equestrian accidents occur because one, two or all of these conditions are not present. (For example, an inexperienced rider
might lose control of the horse during a trail ride and fall off onto a rock.) Vaulting injuries are typical for gymnastics.
4. Is is hard to learn?
Everyone experiences fun, challenging and successful exercises from the first class on, because vaulting allows people to
work exactly at their level. Whether you are advanced or beginning, there is much you can do, and much you can still discover.
To learn to compete at top levels requires dedication and talent. To enjoy the sport and learn new skills requires only
showing up and giving our best.
5. Who can vault?
We have taught many 3 to 5 year olds with much fun and success. However our current insurance only allows vaulters ages 6
and up.
6. Do we need a helmet?
Because of the nature of the sport and its soft footing, there is no need for helmets and most vaulters do not use them here
in the States. Helmets would interfere with some exercises, introduce a hard object against which other vaulters could hurt
themselves during doubles and triples, and introduce a false security against a remote danger.
7. How can I learn more about vaulting?
Visit the website of the American Vaulting Association at the link below.
www.americanvaulting.org
Also feel free to e-mail us at Dieter.Merrill@cox.net or call 480-348-1607.
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