What Is a Bull Rush in D&D 5e
In Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition, a bull rush describes a specific kind of forced repositioning between two creatures. It is not a named spell or a unique feat in the baseline rules, but rather a tactical interaction that occurs when one creature uses force to push another away. The term typically appears in two contexts: the optional bull rush rules from the Player’s Handbook and the behavior of certain monsters, class features, or spells that push enemies. Understanding the conditions, limitations, and outcomes of a bull rush helps you make reliable decisions at the table.
Official Rules for Optional Bull Rush
The Core Optional Rule
In the Player’s Handbook, Chapter 9, an optional rule allows characters to push or shove another creature. To do this, you must first move at least 5 feet in a straight line directly toward the target, then make an Athletics check contested by the target’s Athletics or Acrobatics check. If your check exceeds the target’s, you can push the target up to 5 feet away. This rule is optional, and your Dungeon Master may adjust distances or require specific conditions, such as the target being no more than one size larger than you.
Size and Condition Requirements
The optional bull rush works only when you are within 5 feet of the target at the start of your movement. You provoke an opportunity attack if you move out of range without satisfying the special rule, but the forced movement itself does not trigger opportunity attacks. A creature must share at least one square with you to be targeted, and both you and the target must be on the same plane of existence. Prone creatures generally cannot be pushed, and some DMs rule that being shoved while prone might knock you prone or cause other effects, so clarify these details with your table.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Movement Required | 5 feet straight line toward the target | PHB optional rule |
| Check | Athletics contested by target’s Athletics or Acrobatics | PHB optional rule |
| Push Distance | Up to 5 feet away on a success | PHB optional rule |
| Size Limit | Typically no more than one size larger | DM discretion |
| Shared Space | Must start within 5 feet and share a square | PHB optional rule |
Common Monster and Feature Bull Rushes
Monster Traits That Function as Bull Rushes
Several monsters have traits that push creatures without using the optional rule. For example, certain dragons can knock creatures prone or move them with breath weapons or melee attacks. These effects are described using specific wording such as ‘push,’ ‘drag,’ or ‘move,’ and they often ignore the normal rules for pushing. Always read the exact text of the trait, including range, saving throws, and damage, because these details determine whether a creature is forced to move and how far.
Spells and Class Features That Push
Spells like Thunderwave, Thorn Whip, and Displace create forced movement with defined distances and saving throws. Thunderwave pushes creatures up to 15 feet away if they fail a Dexterity saving throw, while Thorn Whip pulls a creature up to 10 feet toward you. Certain class features, such as the Battle Master Fighter’s maneuvers or a Circle of the Moon Druid’s Primal Strike, can also force movement. These effects are not called ‘bull rush’ in the rules, but they share the concept of compelling a creature to change position.
Tactical Uses of a Bull Rush
Positioning and Safety
Forcing an enemy away from allies, dangerous terrain, or your spell’s area can be highly effective. A successful bull rush might move a melee foe off a cliff, out of a choke point, or away from a companion who is setting up an advantageous attack. Conversely, enemies can use forced movement to pull your allies into harmful areas, so read the battlefield carefully.
Action Economy and Readied Actions
Using the optional bull rush costs part of your movement, typically during a bonus action if you take the Attack action and your feature allows it, or as part of another action your class permits. Some monsters use reactions to push when you move, so consider timing and triggers. Readying an action to shove when an enemy approaches can help control key areas, but remember the 5-foot straight-line requirement and the contested check resolution.
Limitations and Common Misconceptions
What a Bull Rush Cannot Do
A standard bull rush does not deal damage, although some monsters or features combine pushing with damage. You cannot typically shove a creature that is twice your size, and many DMs restrict pushing larger creatures entirely. Prone creatures usually cannot be shoved using the optional rule, and forced movement generally does not provoke opportunity attacks from the person doing the pushing. If a spell or ability says it pulls instead of pushes, the mechanics may differ, so always check the exact wording.
Saving Throws and Resistance
The optional bull rush does not use saving throws; it is a contested check. However, other effects that move creatures may allow a Strength or Dexterity save. Some monsters or spells might grant resistance or immunity to being pushed or moved, so consult the creature’s stat block or the spell description. If your table uses variant rules that allow Strength saves instead of contested checks, apply those as written.