Buzz
Step-by-step guide to conquering the mechanical bull
Originally designed as training equipment for aspiring bull riders, mechanical bulls have evolved into a fun and thrilling challenge at parties and Western-themed bars across the nation. To impress the crowd with your bull-riding skills, you’ll need to get the basics right: mounting, positioning yourself correctly, and balancing to stay on for as long as possible. Follow these steps to become a mechanical bull champion, and you might even earn a prize at the next bull-riding contest!
How to Maintain Your Balance on a Mechanical Bull
- Hop onto the bull and grab the rope with your non-dominant hand, holding it underhand.
- Lean forward into the saddle and apply pressure with your thighs, then move your legs forward so your feet are placed securely in front of you.
- Dig your heels in, raise your dominant hand to help keep your balance, and match the bull’s movements by swaying in a seesaw-like motion.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Getting on the Bull
Leap up and swing one leg over the bull to settle into the saddle. Most mechanical bulls have cushioned, bouncy flooring around them. Use this to your advantage to jump up and get your leg over the bull, either right or left. Once on top, steady yourself with your arms and hands. Your legs should hang down on either side of the bull’s body.
- Some people may struggle with getting on the bull at first, especially if it’s too high. The padded floor will help make the jump easier.
- Be careful not to jump too high, as you might miss and land past the bull.
Grip the rope with your non-dominant hand, palm facing up. Most mechanical bulls are equipped with either a padded strap or a rope handle. Once you're on, use it to stabilize and adjust your position. It's best to hold it underhand with your non-dominant hand.
- Holding the rope underhand provides better stability when the bull is moving. It also allows you to release your grip quickly if you fall off.
Shift your body forward in the saddle and hold tight with your thighs. Position yourself as far forward as possible in the saddle. This reduces movement and helps you stay on the bull longer. Once you're in position, squeeze the bull with your thighs to maintain control and stay securely in place on its back.
Bring your legs forward. Keep your legs positioned in front of you while sitting on the bull. Avoid letting your feet dangle behind you. If your feet are too far back, it will make it harder to stay balanced while the bull moves, and you might even fall forward if the bull moves downward.
Dig your heels into the bull's sides. Once your legs are in place, press your heels into the bull's sides while pointing your toes outward. This will give you better control and grip with your feet.
- Do not use your toes to hold onto the bull. They lack the strength to maintain a solid grip.
Staying Balanced on the Bull
Keep your upper body relaxed. To ride the bull for as long as possible, you’ll need to remain relaxed in your upper body. If you stiffen up, the momentum will throw you off, and you’ll fall off quickly. A relaxed body will move fluidly, almost like a flag in the wind. Your upper body should sway naturally with the bull’s movements.
Lift your dominant hand for balance. While holding the rope with your non-dominant hand, raise your dominant hand into the air for balance. Keep your arm in an “L” shape rather than extending it straight out or upwards. While the bull is moving, adjust your arm position to maintain your balance.
- Keeping your dominant hand free allows you to better catch yourself if you lose balance and fall.
Focus your gaze on the bull’s head. Resist the temptation to look at the crowd or your friends while riding the mechanical bull. Keep your eyes fixed on the back of the bull’s head. This will help you anticipate any directional changes and keep your balance. Looking elsewhere will distract you and make it harder to adjust your body when the bull shifts direction.
Move your upper body in a seesaw motion. As the bull moves, its body shifts up and down like a seesaw. You’ll need to mirror these motions with your upper body to stay on as long as possible. When the bull’s head drops, lean back to avoid falling forward. When it rises, lean forward to prevent falling backwards.
- Keep your body relaxed while performing these movements. If you stiffen up, you’ll be thrown off quickly.
- Always keep a strong grip with your legs as you move with the bull’s motion.
Sway your upper body slightly left or right when the bull turns. As the bull sways and spins, you’ll need to adjust your body accordingly. If it turns left, lean slightly to the right. If it turns right, lean to the left. When the bull spins in circles, try leaning in the opposite direction to help maintain your balance.
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Be sure to dress properly before mounting the mechanical bull. Wear long jeans to protect your legs and help you grip the saddle more effectively. Remove any loose items like hats or glasses before climbing onto the bull. If you’re wearing a skirt, it’s probably a good idea to rethink your outfit.
Precautions
- Don’t drink and ride. Alcohol impairs both your judgment and your balance. Riding a mechanical bull while intoxicated significantly increases your risk of injury.
