Mount 2

Build up exercises

2. Mounting exercise – Bunny hops

Aim; To link the timing of running with the horse with the jump needed to mount.

Method;

Step 1. The vaulter approaches the horse, running in time with it. When they reach the horse they hold the handles with both hands. The height of the vaulter will determine where they will hold.

Step 2. The vaulter now jumps forward landing close to the horses inside front leg and also landing at the same time as this leg hits the floor. Both feet should land together.

Step 3. The vaulter now jumps out of the ground and pushes their hips up and towards the horses back. Their head should stay near to roller and their hands. The vaulter lands on the floor and starts to run.

Step 4. Once the vaulter is good at step 3. They can add in the swing of the leg closest to the horse. Again the vaulter lands on the floor and starts to run.

What to look for;

• The vaulter must run in time with the horse before starting the jumps.
• In step 2. The vaulter must jump forward landing on both feet at the same time. This should be a small step rather than a jump.
• In step 3. The vaulter must pull on their arms to keep their head and chest near to the roller. The head must not go up. Their hips should be above the level of their head.

Tips;

• Let the vaulter look at the horses’ legs when starting the first jump. This will help them to stay in time.
• During step 3. Ask the vaulter the keep their lower arm on the roller at all times. This will help to keep their upper body low and allow the hips to travel above it.

BEV Ltd. Resource pack 2005 Coaching doc. Mount p.2