What’s Your Weakest Link?

3 Common Rodeo Athlete Imbalances (and How to Fix Them)

If you're a rodeo athlete, you’ve probably had moments where your body feels “off”—maybe your hip’s tight, your low back nags after a long drive, or you can’t seem to stay square when you ride. These aren’t just random aches. They’re red flags pointing to muscular imbalances that are holding you back—and putting you at risk.

Let’s break down three of the most common imbalances we see in rodeo athletes (and what to do about them):

1. Adduction Overload vs. Abduction Neglect

What it looks like: Groin pulls, hip tightness, instability in the legs when landing or dismounting.

Why it happens: Rodeo athletes—spend a ton of time adducting (squeezing legs together), but rarely train the opposing motion: abduction (moving legs away from center).

Fix it:

Train abduction at a 3:1 ratio to adduction.

Try:

• Standing banded hip abductions

• Side-lying clamshells

• Lateral band walks

2. Lack of Core Stability (Not Just “Abs”)

What it looks like: Low back pain, poor control when mounting/dismounting, energy leaks during explosive movements.

Why it happens: Core strength isn't just about six-pack abs—it’s about anti-rotation, bracing, and transferring force from the ground up.

Fix it:

Start incorporating isometric and anti-rotational work.

Try:

• Deadbugs

• Bird-dogs on a bench

• Banded Pallof presses

• Weighted planks

3. Unilateral Strength Gaps

What it looks like: One leg always stronger, harder to balance, nagging knee pain on one side.

Why it happens: Rodeo is rarely symmetrical—think about mounting, spurring, or dismounting. One leg ends up doing more work than the other.

Fix it:

Use single-leg strength work weekly.

Try:

• Split squats

• Step-ups

• Single-leg Romanian deadlifts

• Single-leg glute bridges

Unlock Better Performance & Longevity

Fixing these imbalances doesn’t just keep you healthy—it makes you a better rider, roper, and athlete. And here’s the best part: you don’t need a full gym to make progress.

👉 Start our Mobility Anywhere Program inside the Champion Living app.

It’s designed specifically for athletes on the road with minimal equipment but maximum results.

Ready to Ride Balanced?

Your weakest link doesn’t have to stay that way. Start fixing it today.

👉 Download the Champion Living App → Start Mobility Anywhere