subject: Archery Training Tips for Beginners - 6 Important Tips [print this page] Archery Training Tips for Beginners - 6 Important Tips
Archery training tips for beginners can mean the difference between frustration and making huge improvements in your archery performance. Here are some simple archery tips that can greatly enhance your results.
1. Begin with a proper fitting bow. Having the right size bow can make a big difference. You should have the proper draw length and correct draw weight for you. Some experts recommend starting with recurve bows. Once you have learned to shoot competently with a recurve you will be able to handle a compound bow well. Starting off with a compound bow may make the learning process go slower.
2. The hand griping the bow should have a firm but relaxed grip. Not overly tense. For a right handed person hold the bow with your left hand. Make a V with your index finger and thumb. Then allow the handle of the bow to set deep in that V and wrap your thumb and fingers lightly around the bow handle. When you arm is extended the elbow should be slightly bent, no locked.
3. There are a few variations on holding the string that will work. The one that I suggest is to place two fingers under the arrow nock with one above. With your fingers on the string think about having the same amount of tension applied by each finger. As you start to draw the bow make sure your fingers are kept in the same place. A common mistake is to curl them as you draw. This can cause the arrow to separate from the string. As a right handed person draws the right elbow should be kept up and pointed out, away from you. As for breathing I recommend taking a breath in as you begin the draw. You will want to be making a brief hold of the breath at the release.
4.You now want to draw to full dram and the end of the arrow and your fingers are brought to your anchor point. This anchor or hold point maybe different with some people. It may be the corner of your mouth or a certain spot on your cheek. The important things are to find the anchor point that feels natural for you and works well and then to always use the exact same spot. One of the keys to archery is to be consistent and make each motion and each spot the same. Once you reach this anchor point you then hold your breath briefly. You also want to keep you entire body relatively relaxed. If you are too tense you tend to jerk as the arrow is released. It should be a smooth release.
5. The aim is obviously very important. By performing all the other basics well it will allow you to aim better. Once you have reached full draw to the anchor point you are ready to aim. Close your off arrow eye and use the other one to look straight down the arrow to the target. Identify the exact spot you want to hit, stare at it briefly. The aiming process should be no longer then about three seconds. You do not want to be holding your breath for more then two to three seconds as you aim. But at the same time you do not want to rush the shot, stay relaxed and focused. Perform the release by simply relaxing your fingers. Do this smoothly and slowly exhale.
6. Following through is important at this point. Beginning any type incorrect movement too soon will mess up the shot. It is a common mistake for archers to drop the bow hand to soon. Momentarily you should remain still until the target has been hit. Then view your results. With good technique, practice and these few archery tips for beginners you may be amazed at your rate of archery improvement. Remember to always practice safety first!
