Q: What’s the best way to improve my horse’s canter transitions?

A: Quality trot creates a quality transition so focus on straightness, impulsion, and rhythm in the trot before you ask for the canter. No horse can canter easily from a disorganised and messy trot. Use exercises like trot–walk–trot to sharpen responsiveness, and try for the canter asking on a slight curve or from the shoulder-fore to engage the inside hind. Keep your aids quiet and consistent — tension in your body often creates tension in theirs.