30th April 2009
Move over yoga and Thai-chi - a different kind of holistic exercise has hit the region and you can try it out in Shrewley, Warwickshire, on Thursday 28 May 2009.
Vaulting, which has been dubbed Pilates on horses, is growing in popularity. A form of gymnastics on horseback this sport offers enormous physical, emotional and social benefits - and is relatively inexpensive.
Windmill House Farm equestrian centre in Shrewley is running the vaulting taster day next month in a bid to encourage more people - of all ages and abilities - into the sport. No previous riding experience is necessary, but pre-booking is essential to guarantee participation on the day.
Thanks to funding from the British Equestrian Federation's (BEF) Club and Coach Programme, the centre now has an additional vaulting horse and equipment to enable them to involve more people with the sport.
The taster day will give people the opportunity to try some of the manoeuvres on the horse, learn more about the sport, speak to regular vaulters, and practice moves on the vaulting barrel.
Julie Newell, from the English Vaulting Squad, runs Windmill House Farm equestrian centre, said: "Vaulting is a fun sociable exercise that helps build your core strength and balance, develops your co-ordination and flexibility, and ultimately improves your general fitness and wellbeing. For riders it's a great way to improve their seat too.
"So we'd encourage anyone to come along and give it a go - you don't need to be able to ride or be a dancer or gymnast - it's just a great way to learn to move in harmony with a horse in a safe and structured environment."
Sonia Birch, West Midlands Regional Development Co-ordinator, BEF, said: "Vaulting offers so many benefits and is suitable and safe for most people, so we are keen to encourage people to have a go. This taster day will give people the opportunity to try it at a reduced rate - and I'm sure that once they've done that they'll be hooked.
"Julie has a wealth of vaulting experience and is such an enthusiastic and fantastic instructor. We hope to spread the word about the work she does to invite local schools and groups to try the sport too."
A two hour session on the taster day costs £5 - to include tea / coffee. Participants are recommended to wear flexible trousers and gym shoes - no specialist equipment is necessary. Spectators are welcome to watch, free of charge. To book a place or for more information on vaulting, contact Julie Newell on 07976 421789.
