Mechanical bulls are popular at all types of events and venues, from state fairs and bars to outdoor carnivals and college events. If you know that you and your friends will have the opportunity to ride a mechanical bull at an upcoming party, you may be wondering how you can impress them and blow them out of the water. If so, you’re in the right place.
For decades, our team at Anytown Entertainment has been providing high-quality rental equipment, including mechanical bulls, for a wide variety of festivities. In our experience, we’ve seen what techniques work and don’t work when people attempt to tame mechanical bulls. Below, we’ll share some of our insider tips to help you ride these contraptions like a pro.
- Wear pants with some grip. Mechanical bulls are wide and slippery, so wear long pants that offer some grip. Jeans are OK, but leather or pleather pants are ideal. The last thing you want is to wear shorts.
- Use your legs. Many people try to ride mechanical bulls by gripping onto the rope with all their might. However, the real trick is to squeeze the bull with your adductor (inner thigh) muscles. This will help you stay upright and steady as the bull swings around.
- Don’t fight the bull. When the bull begins to move, don’t tense up. Instead, try to move with the motion and avoid fighting it. Furthermore, keep your eyes on the bull’s head to better gauge its next move.
- Use your non-dominant hand to balance yourself. When you see people holding on with one hand and holding the other up in the air, this is to help them stay balanced, not just look cool. Imagine that you’re on a balance beam or tightrope, using your non-dominant hand to remain centered and level.