7 secrets to riding top transitions
Make changes of pace a smoother ride with our handy hints
When it comes to transitions, there are two types – those that go from one pace to another (walk to trot, for example) and ones within in the paces (such as collected trot to medium trot). Being able to ride smooth, obedient transitions might be something you associate with dressage but they’re an important part of any discipline – even hacking.
Don’t expect miracles straight away, though. Seamless transitions take time to perfect, so you’ll need to be patient. Plenty of practice goes a long way, which is why dressage star Carl Hester has been known to suggest that riding 100 transitions or more during each schooling session isn’t too many.
Transitions – the benefits
Here are just a few great reasons why ‘gear changes’ are an important part of any horse’s training…
• if you need to stop or push on quickly (say, out hacking to avoid a hazard), it’s easier on a responsive horse
• transitions within canter will do wonders for your horse’s jumping when you need to ride on or hold back a little
• you’ll be awarded higher marks in dressage tests
• transitions improve your horse’s balance and suppleness, lightening his forehand and making him less likely to trip
• a horse who’s lighter in the forehand will be an all-round more pleasurable ride