Olympic medallist Laura Tomlinson provides advice on improving downward transitions in dressage to achieve higher marks. She emphasizes balance, control, and avoiding common pitfalls that lead to lower scores despite precise timing. The guidance aims to help riders maintain uphill balance and active hindlegs during transitions like canter to trot or walk.
In dressage competitions, riders often execute downward transitions precisely at markers but still receive scores around 6.5 due to underlying issues. Laura Tomlinson, an Olympic medallist and international dressage judge, explains that weaknesses such as loss of balance, dropping contact, or tipping onto the forehand become evident in these moments. She notes, “If you keep them too round in the downward transition, they fall on the floor. They load the front end, and the hindleg disappears.”
Tomlinson stresses that effective downward transitions make the rest of the test easier by preserving overall harmony. Judges seek a clear, prompt reaction with uphill balance rather than forward collapse, alongside active hindlegs before and after the change, a steady elastic contact, and a horse that remains attentive to the rider. As she advises, “You have to keep the energy behind and up in front,” ensuring carrying power without shutting down the horse's impulsion.
Common problems stem from habitual errors that disrupt this flow. Riders can improve by focusing on softness and control, turning middling marks into 8s or higher. This exclusive article, published on January 19, 2026, offers exercises for subscribers to practice these elements at home.