Rhythm between a cowboy and his horse is key in Saddle Bronc.

The rider moves his feet from the horse’s neck toward the back of the saddle, in time with the bronc’s bucking action. The cowboy holds on to a braided rein that is connected to the horse’s halter, using it to help balance himself. If his hand placement is too low on the rein, he could be pulled over the front; too high, and he may be bucked off the back before his eight seconds are up.