Becoming an expert in professional horsemanship requires a lot of determination and stamina. But that alone may not be enough to guarantee success in such a demanding sporting event. To be a successful rodeo contender, there are several things to keep in mind that will help keep you safe and possibly put you at the top of the game.
1. WEAR PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT. It has always been a tradition for a cowboy to wear his cowboy hat. He is perhaps one of the most vivid icons of a cowboy, setting the tone for the modern West. Safety helmets are designed to protect the cowboy from head injuries. In addition to helmets, protective vests were also created to prevent life-threatening chest conditions. Professional bull riders are at greater risk of injury or death than any other athlete. A cowboy wearing a helmet or padded vest (the bulletproof vest) may destroy the Western appeal a bit, but it can preserve your career for several more years or even save your life. However, many tough cowboys refuse to let padded helmets and vests spoil their image, so they travel unprotected. Between 1989 and 2009, 49 tragic injuries occurred at rodeos that resulted in 21 deaths. Nowadays, more and more professional bull jockeys are falling into the trend of wearing protective gear and believe it has prolonged their career and their health.
2. PHYSICAL HEALTH. Staying healthy takes a lot of effort, including consistent exercise and adequate rest. It is especially important to develop core strength, which is a key factor in professional bull riding. Some professional cowboys train six days a week to stay in good physical shape. Balance is a crucial element in professional bull riding and can be improved with yoga and strength training. Metabolic conditioning is another critical skill for riders. Resistance exercises like deadlifts and squats will help train your metabolic system for competition. Also, short sprints several times in a row, 20, 30, or 40 yards, will help you stay on the bull longer and will also prevent injury.
3. PERFECT YOUR TECHNIQUE. Training requires an investment of time and money, but it is something that will define your performance as a professional rider. Technique is one of the most important aspects of professional bull riding. At a bull riding training school, you will learn exercises to improve your skills, work out with certain exercises, and have professional trainers analyze your walks. Your technique can make the difference between a winning score and a losing score.
Indeed, professional riding requires extreme courage and mental toughness. In addition to wearing the proper equipment and adopting habits that will put you in optimal health, it’s important to hone your technique to prevent potential dangerous injuries and improve your skill. Certainly bull riding is nothing to ride and should be taken seriously. By wearing protective gear, staying in excellent health, and receiving the proper training, you can find yourself at the top of the ranks for rodeo contenders and possibly in the money.
