Mount

Build up exercises

1. Running in time with horse

Aim; the vaulter must be in time with the horse to gain maximum lift from the horse to aid in mounting.

Method:

• The vaulter begins standing next to the lunger.
• They start to approach the horse moving in time with the horses’ legs. The lunge line is used as a line to follow.
• They reach the horse and run/walk in time with the horses’ legs. Their feet should hit the ground at the same time as the horses and also with the equivalent leg.
• The vaulter the drops off behind the horse and continues to runs on a larger circle in the same direction as the horse back to the rest of the group.

Correct approach to the horse

This should be done at walk, trot and canter on both reins. At canter the vaulter must make a galloping movement with their legs.

What to look for;

• The vaulter must stay close to but not touching the lunge line when approaching the horse.
• The vaulters legs must be the same as the horses, i.e. when the horse moves its offside leg the vaulter must move their right leg.
• The feet of the vaulter must touch the ground at the exact same time as the horses.

Tips:

· When the vaulter is with the horse let the vaulter hold the roller and watch the horses and their own legs.

· Ask the vaulter to count in time with the horses’ legs.

· Shut their eyes and feel the rhythm

Incorrect approach to the horse

BEV Ltd. Resource pack 2005 Coaching doc. Mount p.1