What is a flank strap?
As the name suggests, a flank strap is a strap that goes around the flank of a bull. Its purpose is to enhance the natural bucking motion of a bull and to encourage the animal to extend its hind legs when trying to get his rider on the ground. The flank strap never covers or goes around the bull’s genitals, and no sharp or foreign objects are ever placed inside the flank strap to agitate the animal. Furthermore, a flank strap cannot be too tight around the bull’s flank or the will be too uncomfortable to perform. Pulling the flank strap too tight would restrict a bull’s motion, resulting in an inferior performance by the bull and quite possibly a reride for the bull rider. The flank strap is designed for quick release and is removed immediately after the bull exits the arena.
