Gymnastic on horseback, Equestrian Vaulting whatever you call it, is growing in popularity. Vaulting is an FEI disciple that has been spreading across the USA and Canada catching up with its European counterparts. Today’s episode takes us through vaulting, from the very beginning to the master of the show. we learn about equipment, what horses are best suited, and some insiders tips. Join Heather as she chats with Trisha Dowling vaulting coach as we learn about gymnastics on horseback and the amazing adventures you can have in the world of vaulting.
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Gymnastics on Horseback- Equestrian Vaulting
Vaulting is the performance of gymnastic and dance-like movements to music on a moving horse.
The horse is controlled by a lunger who sends him in a circle around them on the end of a lunge line which is attached to the bridle the horse wears on his head. The horse also wears a special surcingle around his belly which has hand grips and stirrup-like loops for the vaulter’s feet. Vaulters begin working in walk and progress, with training from a qualified instructor, to be able to execute fantastic freestyle performances in the canter. Vaulters learn to have the agility and athleticism of gymnasts, the grace and expression of dancers and the balance and feel of equestrians.
Guest today:
Trisha Dowling (Canada)
Don’t forget to check out the resources section in this article!
Highlights
- Equipment required
- Best horses for Vaulting
- Lunge Line Control
Thank you for tuning in and happy trails!
Special Announcement
Elkhorn Ranch
Calling all equestrians! Elkhorn Ranch’s tradition of equestrian adventure began 99-years-ago in 1922. Bordering Yellowstone National Park, the history of Elkhorn’s riding program runs deep, and the backcountry is where it starts. This Fall, we are hosting an Avid Riders week, where we are rounding up experienced riders of varying disciplines to come together to explore over one million acres of National Forest, USFS Wilderness, and Yellowstone National Park.
The goal of this week is to go far, not fast. Every day there will be groups that will hit the trails in every direction based on desired time in the saddle and comfort level. We will be racking up the mileage this week and working our way into the backcountry for mountaintop vistas that not many can get to.
Riding requirements
All riders must be willing to ride on rocky and steep terrain, as well as comfortable with walk, trot, and canter. Our horses are well mannered and smart mountain horses, if you trust them, they will take you wherever you want to go.
Please reach out to Kt at kt@elkhornranchmontana.com Rates include all meals, cabin lodging, and all on-ranch activities.
Website: www.elkhornranchmontana.com
EQA Books
We just launched our lasted Travel Guide Book for Equestrians!
Available on Amazon, Kobo, Barnes and noble, and more as paperback and hardback coffee table books, however as a special gift to our members and as a big thank you for being a part of the community we are giving you a copy for free!
Click here to grab your free book: Horse Riding in Every US State & Country Book

Equestrian Adventuresses Book Store
Do you love to read or listen to horsey books and stories, then have a look at our EQA Book Series, now available as paperbacks, e-books, and audio books.
Packed with exciting true-life stories written by women from all around the world about their adventures they had with horses!
Follow a vet on her adventures in the Namibian Bush, an expat winning a show jumping medal in Italy, a British family with two toddlers crossing Patagonia on horseback or a German girl finding her dream horse on an Indian horse market.

Do you feel that we are missing out on an important topic? Or maybe you have an interesting story to tell? Contact Heather or Ute!
Resources
- Vaulting Canada
- FEI Vaulting
- Horse Riding in every country
- Equestrian tools and resources
- EQA Online Shop
Thanks for listening to our horse podcast: Gymnastics on Horseback – Vaulting your Next Adventure.
