Chances are you’ve been to a rodeo or at least heard of bull riding due to its growing popularity. The goal is for riders to stay on the bull while keeping one hand in the air as the bull bucks and contorts its body in various ways in an attempt to dislodge the rider.

However, after attending my second rodeo, I realized I had more questions about the sport. For example, what kind of entry fees do rodeos require to host the events? Here are some details and personal preferences given by bull riders:

1. Entry fees vary by event but are usually around $75, with the exception of finals, which can range from $100 to $150. In comparison, the payouts can be anywhere from $2000 to $5000.

2. Rodeos are held year-round with summers having a significantly larger number of events than in the winter. Some riders choose to treat the winter months as an off season.

3. Training techniques and routines include investing in a personal drop barrel, riding practice bulls, watching videos of pro riders and core strengthening exercises.

4. Different bull ropes can be used but one that came up on more than one occasion is the Hotman Bull Rope, which is preferred because it isn’t as stiff as traditional ropes.

5. Although protective vests have been mandated, the riders may choose whether or not to wear a helmet.

6. The vast majority of bull riders are also employed outside of bull riding; some of them take summers off to focus solely on bull riding.

7. When asked if family and friends encourage their bull riding careers, the response was that they are supportive but some of them are concerned or skeptical.

8. The riders I conversed with decided to try bull riding because they saw it or watched friends do it and wanted to test it out for themselves.

9. In three summers, one rider has gotten in 125 rides at events. Another rider has involved for two and a half years and been on over 100 rides.

10. The worst injury for one rider was a concussion and a head wound that needed 13 staples. The worst injury of another rider broke a bone in his leg.

11. Their advice to people interested in becoming a bull rider:

“Surround yourself with positive people, train properly. Never worry about not making it to your next event. One event at a time, one bull at a time and one jump at a time. Personally, worrying about the next event, or bull, has done me more harm than good.” -John Helmuth

“You’ve gotta be tough to play this game. Listen and train around someone who’s been doing it for years.” -Leroy Miller

Be sure to catch the next bull riding event in your area!