How to succeed in mechanical bull riding

Mechanical bulls may look tame from the outside, but anyone who has ever sat atop one of the bucking broncos will know that maintaining balance is anything but easy! The ride is unrelenting and even the slightest loss of balance means that the game is up, but there are ways to master these wild bull rides. This tutorial will examine how to become a pro at rodeo bull riding.

Ride like a pro

Mechanical bulls are actually used as training devices for bull riders, which is why they are so relentless in their aggression. Here are some tips and tricks that will help tame that beast! Hold on with your dominant hand Hold the grip with your palm facing either up or down. Squeeze with the thighs Use those leg muscles to control the bull and maintain balance. Relax the upper body As difficult as it sounds, relaxing the upper body is crucial to staying on top of the bronco. It is quick shifts in weight balance that causes most people to fall off the bull, so try and keep a consistent rhythm to stop the body from being blasted with excess force. When the bull dives forward, lean backwards to counteract the shift in weight and vice versa when the bull tips backwards. Use your free hand to balance Many people hold on with both hands, losing the benefit of using the second hand as a balancing tool. This technique is similar to the one a tightrope walker would use to avoid a long fall. Don't Skip Levels Move up the levels one by one to ensure that surprise is not a factor.

Other factors to be aware of

Health risks Although bull riding seems all fun and games when in an entertaining environment, it can still be quite dangerous for those that don't know what they are doing. People with heart problems or other such health issues should think twice before confronting the beast. Some battles are best left alone. There is also the risk of broken bones and missing teeth for those who don't treat the device with respect, so above all, don't do anything foolish that could end up causing serious injury. One Final Tip Be sure to wear appropriate clothing. It doesn't take long for skirts and shorts to reveal a little too much and clothing is very difficult to adjust when hanging on for dear life.