A vaulting horse is a piece of gymnastic equipment used primarily in artistic gymnastics. It is a padded apparatus that is raised off the ground, allowing gymnasts to perform various acrobatic maneuvers. The horse has a solid top and is typically about 1.35 meters high, providing a stable surface for athletes to push off during their routines. Gymnasts approach the vaulting horse with speed, using a run-up before launching themselves into the air. They perform flips, twists, and other skills before landing on a mat. The vaulting horse is an essential element in competitions, contributing to the overall score of gymnasts in events like the Olympics and World Championships.