A roping simulator (sometimes referred to as a roping or practice dummy or sled) is designed to mimic the natural movements and anatomy of roping cattle. Embodiments of the instant disclosure mimic the anatomy and movement of a roping cattle when the animal “washes out,” meaning that its back end slips and pivots during a turn. In various embodiments, the disclosed roping simulator also includes a feature whereby the head portion of the dummy rotates and pivots downward when a force is applied by a rope, simulating head movement of a live animal. In one embodiment, a sled assembly and a body assembly are connected to one another to form the roping simulator. The sled assembly is the component that makes contact with the ground. The body assembly is the component that provides roping targets, and that simulates the movement of live cattle.