SAFETY IN VAULTING

VAULTING, WHEN TAUGHT CORRECTLY, IS A LOW RISK EQUESTRIAN SPORT.

The training promotes agility, balance, co-ordination and over-all physical fitness, thus reducing the risk of injury. The vaulting roller and pad are specially designed to give the vaulter a sense of security and comfort and the horse is controlled by the lunger thus further reducing the risk of accidents. However, as in all sports, it is important that safety rules are observed at all times. British Equestrian Vaulting works hard to ensure that all affiliated groups adopt safe teaching practises. The following guidelines will help you and your vaulters to enjoy vaulting safely.

1. Vaulting practice should always take place on a soft, non-slip surface, preferably indoors. The lunge area should be separate from riders.

2. The horse must be well-mannered and of a calm nature. It must be obedient and balanced on the lunge.

3. The roller must be specially made for vaulting and be well padded. The girth must be tightened sufficiently to prevent the roller slipping.

4. A competent First Aider should be available during classes. Coaches are required to have a First Aid certificate.

5. The group should be disciplined and well ordered.

6. The coach should have attended vaulting training courses either in Britain or abroad or seek qualified help from the BEV. He/she should be a competent lunger.

7. The very young, the unathletic and heavy beginners should always be assisted during mounting and dismounting. Helpers should be taught how to assist with mounts and dismounts.

8. Practice on the floor and the barrel is essential. Barrel work should be supervised.

9. Both vaulters and horse should be thoroughly warmed up at the beginning of the session; this is especially important during cold weather.

10.There should also be a cooling down session at the end, particularly for the horse.

11. Much of the work can be done at the walk and canter only attempted once the basics are mastered, depending on the children's' ability.

12. Crash hats may be worn by beginners and parents of minors should be consulted before vaulting is practised without head protection. However, crash hats can be hazardous for the more advanced work and when working in pairs or teams.

13. Clothing should be close fitting and leggings of stretch material. All jewellery and watches should be removed. Gymnastic shoes are preferable to trainers.

13. Vaulters should be taught the importance of treating their vaulting horse with care and respect and to understand that he is the most important member of the team.

The success of the group depends largely on the trust which develops between the vaulters, the horse and the lunger. This takes time and patience but the rewards are great.

BEV Ltd. Resource pack 2005 Coaching doc. Safety