An equestrian vaulting competition brings together a horse or pony, a lunger and one or more vaulters. Depending on the category, competitors perform a compulsory test, freestyle test or technical test in front of a panel of judges. The judges assess the difficulty and execution of the exercises, artistic composition, and the performance of the horse and lunger.
Competitions may include individual, pas-de-deux and squad classes. Their exact format depends on the level and applicable rules, but they all follow the same principle: presenting a controlled, harmonious performance that respects the horse.
What Are the Different Levels of Vaulting Competition?
In France, national vaulting competitions are primarily divided into Club and Amateur levels, with additional preparatory classes. International competitions are governed by the International Equestrian Federation, or FEI.
The competition level determines:
- the difficulty of the exercises;
- the required gait;
- the format of each test;
- the number of rounds;
- qualification requirements;
- the duration of each performance;
- the scoring criteria.
The current rules should always be checked before entering because programmes and participation requirements may change between seasons.
Preparatory Classes
Preparatory classes allow vaulters, lungers and horses to discover competition progressively.
They offer adapted content combining compulsory and freestyle elements. Their purpose is to introduce competitors to the competition environment without immediately requiring the difficulty expected at higher levels.
Club Competitions
Club classes support the development of fundamental skills. Depending on the category, they may be performed at walk or canter.
They can assess:
- balance;
- stability;
- confidence on the horse;
- coordination;
- compulsory exercises;
- creativity in the freestyle test;
- the quality of teamwork.
Club competitions may offer individual, pas-de-deux and squad classes.
Amateur Competitions
Amateur classes require greater technical control. The movements are generally more complex, and the standards for execution, difficulty and artistic composition become more demanding.
Advanced individual categories may include a technical test in addition to the compulsory and freestyle tests.
International Vaulting Competitions
International competitions follow FEI rules. They include different star levels and may provide qualification opportunities for international championships.
Formats depend on the athletes’ age group and competition level. Classes can include female and male individuals, pas-de-deux pairs and squads.
Who Takes Part in a Vaulting Competition?
A vaulting performance does not depend solely on the vaulter. It is a team sport in which several roles are closely connected.
The Vaulting Horse
The vaulting horse moves on a circle under the direction of the lunger. It wears a vaulting surcingle with handles and a broad pad protecting its back.
The horse must maintain a regular gait, sufficient balance and a calm attitude throughout the performance. Its movement and behaviour form part of the assessment.
The Lunger
The lunger stands at the centre of the circle and guides the horse with a lunge line. Their role is to maintain the trajectory, gait and rhythm required for the performance.
The lunger’s work directly influences the vaulters’ safety and ability to complete their exercises. A change of speed or an irregular circle can disrupt the entire routine.
The Individual Vaulter
In an individual class, one vaulter performs on the horse. Depending on the category, they may complete compulsory exercises, a freestyle test and a technical test.
Although the classification is individual, the result still reflects the combined work of the vaulter, lunger and horse.
The Pas-de-Deux
A pas-de-deux consists of two vaulters, one horse and a lunger. The vaulters perform coordinated exercises, balances, lifts and transitions.
Depending on the category, the competition may include compulsory exercises or several freestyle tests.
The Vaulting Squad
A squad consists of several vaulters competing with the same horse and lunger.
Compulsory exercises are generally performed successively. During the freestyle test, several vaulters may participate in the same formation within the limits established by the rules.
How Do Competitors Prepare for a Vaulting Competition?
The competition begins well before the team enters the arena. The horse, equipment, music and performances must all be properly prepared.
Entering the Correct Class
The club or coach enters competitors in a class corresponding to their age, ability and qualifications.
The selected class determines:
- compulsory exercises;
- the required gait;
- the number and type of tests;
- performance duration;
- the number of vaulters;
- whether assistance is permitted during the mount;
- requirements concerning the horse.
Entering an unsuitable class can make the routine inappropriate or prevent the competitors from taking part.
Preparing the Music
Vaulting tests are performed with musical accompaniment. In freestyle and technical tests, music contributes directly to the artistic composition.
The soundtrack must follow the organiser’s submission requirements. Competitors generally provide a clearly identified recording and check its duration and sound quality before the event.
Warming Up the Vaulters
Before entering the competition arena, vaulters complete a general and discipline-specific warm-up. This prepares the joints, muscles and coordination required for the exercises.
They may also rehearse transitions on the ground or on a vaulting barrel without attempting to change the entire programme immediately before competing.
Warming Up the Horse
The horse must also be prepared progressively. The warm-up allows the lunger to assess its movement, responsiveness and general condition.
It may include:
- walking;
- transitions between gaits;
- establishing a regular rhythm;
- mobilising the horse’s body;
- developing balance on the circle;
- checking the equipment.
The purpose is not to tire the horse before the test but to prepare it physically and mentally.
Checking the Equipment
Before entering the arena, the team checks:
- the surcingle;
- its handles;
- the vaulting pad;
- the girth;
- the lunge line;
- the permitted bridle or lunging equipment;
- any protective equipment;
- the clothing of the vaulters and lunger.
All equipment must comply with the competition rules and remain safe for the horse and participants.
How Does the Entry into the Arena Work?
When the team is called, the horse, lunger and vaulters enter the competition arena together.
Presentation to the Judges
The competitors present themselves to the judging panel before beginning their test. This entrance already contributes to the overall impression created by the team.
The horse must remain under the lunger’s control. The vaulters enter in an orderly manner and salute the judges according to competition procedures.
Establishing the Horse on the Circle
The lunger guides the horse onto the circle and establishes the required gait. The judges may observe its movement before the vaulting exercises begin.
Once the horse is ready, the responsible judge gives the signal to start, generally using a bell.
Starting the Clock
The precise moment when the clock starts depends on the test and applicable rules. In some programmes, timing begins when the first vaulter touches the horse, pad or surcingle.
The competitors have a limited period in which to begin after the judge’s signal, so they must be prepared and correctly positioned.
What Is the Compulsory Test?
The compulsory test contains exercises defined by the rules. Every competitor in the same category performs the same movements, allowing judges to compare their technical ability.
Depending on the level, exercises may include:
- the vault-on;
- the basic seat;
- the flag;
- the mill;
- the scissors;
- the stand;
- a leg swing;
- a dismount.
Introductory categories may use simplified exercises or movements performed at walk.
How Does an Individual Compulsory Test Work?
The vaulter mounts the horse and performs the required exercises in the prescribed order. Each movement must be clearly shown and completed at the correct gait.
An omitted exercise, incorrect sequence or movement performed at the wrong gait may receive a penalty or a score of zero, depending on the rules.
How Does a Squad Compulsory Test Work?
In a squad class, the vaulters generally perform their exercises one after another in the order shown by their competition numbers.
The routine must be organised so that every athlete has sufficient time. During the compulsory test, more than one vaulter may be prohibited from being in contact with the horse simultaneously.
How Are Compulsory Exercises Scored?
Each exercise receives a technical score. The judges may consider:
- balance;
- body alignment;
- stability;
- amplitude;
- control;
- rhythm;
- quality of the mount and dismount;
- adaptation to the horse’s movement.
The precise criteria are defined in the relevant code of points or judging guidelines.
What Is the Freestyle Test?
The freestyle test is a choreographed sequence of static and dynamic exercises performed to music.
The vaulters select their movements within the limits of the rules. Their aim is to create a coherent performance combining difficulty, fluidity and artistic expression.
The Individual Freestyle Test
In an individual freestyle, one vaulter presents a sequence of exercises and transitions. The routine should use the available space on the horse and demonstrate different orientations and physical abilities.
The choreography must match the vaulter’s genuine capabilities. A routine containing numerous difficult but poorly controlled movements may receive a lower score than a simpler programme performed accurately.
The Pas-de-Deux Freestyle Test
Two vaulters create a shared performance featuring synchronised movements, balances and lifts.
Transitions are particularly important. The partners must move between formations without disturbing the horse or interrupting the flow of the routine.
The Squad Freestyle Test
A squad freestyle can alternate between:
- individual exercises;
- pair exercises;
- group formations;
- coordinated mounts and dismounts;
- changes of role;
- transitions involving vaulters on the ground.
The number of vaulters permitted on the horse at the same time is limited by the rules. Their combined weight and its distribution must not interfere with the horse’s movement.
What Is the Technical Test?
The technical test is used in certain advanced individual categories. It combines specified technical exercises with additional freestyle movements selected by the vaulter.
The required technical elements assess physical abilities such as:
- balance;
- strength;
- flexibility;
- rhythm;
- power and elevation.
The vaulter must incorporate these compulsory technical elements into a personal and harmonious composition.
Compulsory Test and Technical Test: What Is the Difference?
During the compulsory test, exercises are performed in a prescribed sequence to allow direct comparison between competitors.
The technical test also contains required elements, but the vaulter has greater freedom in how they are integrated into the choreography.
How Is a Vaulting Performance Scored?
Several judges are positioned around the circle to observe the performance from different angles. They award scores according to their assigned responsibilities and the relevant rules.
The assessment can include four main components:
- difficulty;
- execution;
- artistic composition;
- the horse and lunger.
These components are not necessarily weighted in the same way in every class.
The Difficulty Score
The difficulty score reflects the complexity of the exercises presented. It may consider:
- height above the horse;
- the number and security of contact points;
- the vaulter’s orientation;
- the complexity of dynamic movements;
- the number of vaulters involved in a formation;
- transitions;
- use of the different areas of the horse.
Depending on the rules, only a certain number of exercises may count towards the difficulty score. Adding extra movements does not therefore guarantee a higher result.
The Execution Score
The execution score assesses how well each exercise is performed.
Judges may consider:
- stability;
- control;
- alignment;
- accuracy of contact points;
- fluidity;
- controlled transitions;
- quality of landings;
- losses of balance;
- heavy or abrupt contact with the horse.
Deductions can be applied for every visible fault. Falls and significant losses of control result in larger penalties.
The Artistic Score
The artistic score assesses the composition and presentation of the programme.
It may consider:
- the coherence of the choreography;
- use of space;
- variety of positions;
- changes of orientation;
- transitions;
- interpretation of the music;
- the vaulters’ expression;
- originality;
- the balance of difficulty throughout the routine.
Dramatic music alone does not create a strong artistic score. The movements must have a visible relationship with the musical composition.
The Horse and Lunger Score
The horse and lunging performance are also evaluated, confirming that vaulting remains an equestrian discipline.
Judges may assess:
- regularity of the gait;
- quality of rhythm;
- balance on the circle;
- relaxation;
- stability of the trajectory;
- response to the lunger’s aids;
- quality of contact;
- overall behaviour.
The lunger must maintain conditions that allow the vaulters to perform safely.
A technically ambitious routine cannot fully compensate for a horse that is irregular, unbalanced or showing clear signs of discomfort.
What Faults Can Be Penalised?
Competition rules include penalties to protect fairness and safety.
Faults may include:
- omitting an exercise;
- performing movements in the wrong order;
- completing an exercise at the wrong gait;
- exceeding the permitted time;
- falling;
- restarting the programme incorrectly;
- receiving unauthorised assistance;
- an unbalanced landing;
- losing control of the horse;
- dangerous behaviour;
- unsuitable clothing or equipment.
The severity of the penalty depends on the fault, test and competition class.
What Happens After a Fall?
If the vaulter can continue immediately and safely, the rules specify how the programme may resume and which deductions apply.
If the participant cannot continue or the situation becomes dangerous, the judge may stop the performance. The vaulter’s health and the horse’s welfare take priority over the result.
How Is the Final Ranking Calculated?
The final classification combines the scores obtained in the different tests. Depending on the category, a competition may consist of one or two rounds.
Competition formats can include:
- one compulsory and one freestyle test;
- one compulsory and two freestyle tests;
- a compulsory, technical and freestyle test;
- two freestyle tests in certain pas-de-deux classes.
Scores are combined according to the coefficients and calculation method defined by the relevant rules. The vaulter, pair or squad with the highest final result wins the class.
How Are Ties Decided?
Tie-breaking procedures vary between competitions. A particular component, such as execution, artistic composition or the result of a specific test, may be given priority.
The competition rules must be consulted to determine the exact procedure.
What Happens After the Performance?
At the end of the test, the vaulters leave the horse, return to their salute position and exit the arena with the lunger.
The horse is then allowed to recover. Its equipment may be loosened or removed, and its general condition should be checked.
Scores are calculated and published according to the event’s organisation. Coaches can examine the judging sheets to identify strengths and areas requiring further work.
How Does the Prize-Giving Ceremony Work?
Once the results have been confirmed, the leading competitors are called for the prize-giving ceremony. Its format depends on the event and relevant safety rules.
The horse may or may not attend the ceremony. Participation should never be required if its behaviour, fatigue or the conditions make attendance unsuitable.
What Role Does Horse Welfare Play?
Horse welfare must be protected before, during and after the competition. The judging panel can intervene when a horse’s condition is considered incompatible with continuing.
Particular attention should be given to:
- physical condition;
- level of training;
- the quality of the surface;
- duration of the warm-up;
- recovery between tests;
- fit of the equipment;
- regularity of work on the circle;
- distribution of the vaulters’ weight;
- signs of pain, distress or exhaustion.
The horse must never be treated as a simple platform for athletic performance. Its movement and emotional state are integral to the quality of the test.
How to Watch a Vaulting Competition
For spectators, a competition offers an opportunity to discover the different aspects of the discipline. Compulsory exercises reveal the technical foundations, while freestyle tests emphasise choreography and group formations.
To understand the results more clearly, observe:
- the regularity of the horse;
- stability of the exercises;
- fluidity of transitions;
- quality of mounts and dismounts;
- coordination between the vaulters;
- the relationship between music and movement;
- the lunger’s control.
The most spectacular exercise is not necessarily the one receiving the highest score. Judges also reward control, precision and harmony.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vaulting Competitions
Are Vaulting Competitions Always Performed at Canter?
No. Certain introductory and Club categories perform all or part of their programmes at walk. Advanced classes are mainly performed at canter.
How Many Vaulters Can Compete on One Horse?
It depends on the class. An individual performs alone, a pas-de-deux consists of two vaulters and a squad includes several athletes. The rules limit how many people may be in contact with the horse simultaneously.
How Long Does a Vaulting Test Last?
The duration varies according to the class and test. An individual freestyle is considerably shorter than a squad performance. Exact times must be checked in the current rules.
Does the Horse Receive a Score?
Yes. The quality and regularity of its movement, balance and the lunger’s performance contribute to the assessment.
Is Music Required?
Vaulting tests are performed with musical accompaniment. In freestyle and technical tests, the music directly contributes to the artistic composition.
Can Beginners Enter a Vaulting Competition?
Preparatory and introductory Club classes provide a progressive route into competition. However, the vaulter must be properly coached and possess the skills required for the selected class.
A Competition Based on Technique and Harmony
An equestrian vaulting competition combines preparation of the horse, physical warm-up of the vaulters and the presentation of several tests before a judging panel. Compulsory exercises allow technical foundations to be compared, while freestyle and technical tests develop difficulty, creativity and artistic expression.
The result does not depend solely on the vaulters’ acrobatic abilities. The regularity of the horse, the precision of the lunger, the quality of the transitions and respect for the animal all contribute to the assessment.
A successful performance is one in which the horse, lunger and vaulters form a balanced, safe and harmonious team.
Main sources:
French Equestrian Federation – 2026 Vaulting Rules,
French Equestrian Federation – Introduction to Vaulting,
International Equestrian Federation – 2026 Vaulting Rules,
International Equestrian Federation – 2026 Vaulting Guidelines.
