The Sport: Voltige, the art of gymnastics and acrobatics on the living horse, is a combination of riding and gymnastics, acrobatics and movement, fitness and fun. The voltigeurs (i.e. the athletes practicing the sport) are learning and performing exercises on the horse, similar to the gymnast performing exercises on the ground and on the equipment. As a recreational activity, Voltige introduces the voltigeurs to the horse, teaches them self-confidence, trust for the horse, discipline and body coordination. Voltige is considered a valuable additional training for every rider, as it improves rhythm, balance, posture and seat. For a gymnast, it opens up a completely new dimension by incorporating the living horse into the sport. The voltigeur's mind and body will develop into a complete harmony, while she/he is also confronted with the challenge of having to work with the horse in close harmony Note: • No previous Riding or Gymnastic Experience is necessary • No special clothes or equipment needed. The Voltige Classes: During the classes, the voltigeurs will be learning and performing exercises on the ground (gymnastics, acrobatics, juggling, body posture and movement, etc.) on gymnastics equipment (e.g. trapeze), on the Voltige Barrel (a specially designed wooden or metal apparatus resembling the shape of the horse, used to prepare the voltigeur for the exercises on the living horse) and on the horse in the walk and the canter. The voltigeurs will also care for and handle the horse, both before and after the classes, they will lead the horse around, help tacking it up and cooling it down, and help caring and cleaning the tack (equipment). The older and/or more experienced voltigeurs will be helping the instructors, spotting and aiding the other voltigeurs on the ground, barrel, and horse.