Bull Riding Tips – How to Leave the Chute Correctly

Leaving the chute is what builds your ride. If you get beat out, you’ve already given the advantage back to the bull. The chute is the one place where you know exactly what direction the bull will go next — unless he backs out. This is your chance to set the tone for the ride.

Why Leaving the Chute Matters

Within the last couple of months, while traveling to high school and college rodeos, I’ve noticed that many young riders struggle with leaving the chute. Too often, they get beat out and wonder why they get drilled just a few jumps later.

If you leave the chute in bad form, you’re immediately playing catch-up. The first jump sets your ride — and it can either build your confidence or cost you the ride.

The Mistake Most Riders Make

A common error I see: riders let go of the chute too soon, raising their free arm before they nod.

Here’s why that doesn’t work:

• Your chest collapses, creating a “C” in your back.

• You drop onto your pockets instead of staying forward and keeping your weight down your legs.

• You give the bull the advantage right away.

👉 In bull riding coaching, we always stress: don’t give the bull any more of an advantage than he already has, especially before the gate even opens.

The Correct Way to Leave the Chute

Use the gate as a tool.

• Keep your hand at about chest level with your elbow below your hand. The goal is to keep your arm slightly bent and hold yourself forward (off your butt).

• Hold until the gate starts to open, then let it pull you into position as the bull starts to move out of the chute.

• IMPORTANT: Release at the right moment — hold too long and it pulls you out of position. If you find yourself hanging on to the chute which pulls you out of position, try letting go of the chute as you nod your head.

Keep your feet on the slats.

• This gives you leverage to stay off your pockets.

• As the gate spreads your legs, drop your feet for a solid hold.

• Think of it like the “mark out” in saddle bronc riding — low enough for a grip, high enough for drive.

With this approach, your first jump is strong, centered, and in position to ride forward.

Why This Builds Confidence

If you leave the chute correctly:

• You’re already forward on the first jump.

• You’re not playing catch-up.

• You build momentum and confidence from the start.

Bull riding is all about consistency. Get this step right, and you’ve set yourself up for a stronger, safer, and smarter ride.

Final Thoughts – Use the Chute to Your Advantage

The chute is the only time in bull riding where you have tools to help you: the rails, the slats, and the control of the start of the ride (when you nod to open the gate). Use them.

👉 Don’t get beat out. Stay forward, drive out of the chute, and give yourself the best chance to succeed.

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