In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the basics on what it takes to become a rough stock rodeo rider. Events like bareback, saddle bronc and bull riding all fall under the category of rough stock riding, and it takes a combination of the right physical equipment and the right attitude to enter this world.
At A Cut Above Buckles, we're here to offer custom rodeo belt buckles and numerous other accessories that are ideal for various parts of the rodeo experience. While part one of our series went over the proper equipment to have on-hand plus the right mindset to adopt if you're becoming a rough stock rider, today's part two will look into some other themes to closely consider as you push into this realm.
Mentorship is valuable in many fields and areas of life, and the same applies if you're starting to pursue a passion for rough stock riding. A mentor is someone who has knowledge and experience in the field, and can offer advice on various topics to help guide your journey. Your mentor may be an experienced rider themselves, or they might be involved with rodeo through another capacity such as livestock management or event organization.
There are numerous ways you can lean on a mentor to help you as you start to ride rough stock, from understanding the fundamentals of a competition to learning how to stay safe while on the back of a bull or bronc. A mentor can also provide insight into industry trends, as well as connections that could help you move forward in your journey.
Rough stock riding is a demanding physical activity that requires the right kind of fitness in order to stay safe and excel at the sport. It's important to condition yourself for the rigors of rough stock riding, which could include strength training, running, stretching and core exercises designed to keep you agile and limber during your rides.
Your physical fitness should extend beyond just your body, however. It's important to have a thorough understanding of the animal you're riding, both in terms of their habits and tendencies as well as the effects they can have on your body if something goes wrong. Knowing how to properly mount and dismount a bull or bronc will go a long way towards keeping yourself safe from any potential mishaps, as well as building your confidence for the ride itself.
At A Cut Above Buckles, we offer a number of custom rodeo buckles and accessories to complete your look when participating in rough stock competitions. From our selection of championship belt buckles to clothing items like hats, shirts and more, you can find everything you need to feel confident in the ring.
We hope this two-part blog series has been informative in helping to kickstart your rough stock rider career. For more information on our custom rodeo buckles and accessories, contact us today!
