Vaulting

Vaulting is a term with multiple related meanings in sport and architecture. In modern usage it most often refers to two athletic disciplines: artistic gymnastics vaulting and equestrian vaulting. It can also denote a structural element in building design, namely the arch or vaulted ceiling that spans spaces. The common thread is forming an arched, propulsive, or vaulted shape.

Artistic gymnastics vaulting involves a gymnast sprinting along a runway, springing onto a vaulting table, and executing a flight phase before landing. The routine is scored by a difficulty value and an execution score that penalizes faults. Athletes perform a variety of vaults, some named after their creators or late pioneers, and routines may include twists, flips, or multiple half-rotations.

Equestrian vaulting is a sport in which vaulters perform gymnastic and dance movements on a moving horse, which is controlled on a longe line in a circle. Competitions include compulsory and freestyle routines for different age and skill groups. Movements range from standing and kneeling positions to handstands and leaps, often choreographed to music. Emphasis is on balance, precision, and coordination with the horse, with safety protocols observed.

Architectural vaulting refers to an arched ceiling or roof formed by the intersection of arches or rib structures. Common forms include barrel vaults, groin vaults, and ribbed vaults, which have been used since antiquity to span spaces and bear loads. Materials range from stone and brick to reinforced concrete, and vault designs reflect evolving engineering and architectural styles from Rome through the medieval period to contemporary construction.