Bull riding is the "original extreme sport". Bull riding is a rodeo sport that involves the bull rider getting up on a large bull and doing his very best to stay on top for at least 8 seconds. The rider tightly fastens one hand to the bull with a long braided rope and while the rider attempts to stay mounted the bull naturally attempts to throw him off.  It is a risky sport and has been called "the most dangerous eight seconds in sports.

The bull riders primary piece of equipment is the bull rope a braided rope of polypropylene, grass, or some combination. A metallic bell is strapped to the rope and hangs directly under the bull throughout the ride. In addition to the sound the bell produces, it also gives the rope some weight, allowing it to fall off the bull once a rider has dismounted.

The most noticeable piece of bull rider clothing are his chaps (ususally made of leather) provide protection for the rider's legs and thighs. Their distinctive coloring and patterns add flair to the sport.

The flank strap is a rope made of either nylon or sheepskin and leather which is tied around the bull's flank. This rope is to encourage the bull to use its hind legs more in a bucking motion, as this is a true test of a riders skill in maintaining the ride.

The arenas used in professional bull riding can vary but common to all arenas is a large, fenced (6 - 7 feet high), open area that gives the bulls, bull riders, and bull fighters (the people who protect the riders after they dismount) plenty of room to maneuver. The fence is to protect the audience from runaway bulls. Generally, there are exits on each corner of the arena for riders to get out of the way quickly (of course the rider can also hop onto the fence to avoid danger). One end of the arena contains the bucking chutes from which the bulls are released.

Bull riding is a family favorite!