Archery is a sport and practice that involves using a bow and arrows to hit a target. Historically archery has been used for hunting, combat, and competitive sport. For many, archery is also a way of life, a way to relax and to spend quality time with family and friends. I can imagine that if you are a beginner you don’t know where to start. That’s why I wrote this info post with some pro archery tips for beginners to get started.
Table of Contents
Tip #1: Choose the Right Bow
Choosing the right bow is one of the most important things you need to do(obviously) before you start shooting. How does a bow work? The bow has an elastic string, which enables it to transfer work more rapidly. This results in greater velocity and distance. In nature, animals like frogs use elastic tendons to extend their jumps. When an arrow is shot with an arrow, the energy is dissipated through the limbs of the bow and the bowstring. This causes the arrow to have a greater distance.
The first thing to consider when buying a new bow is that it must be the correct height for you. The bow should also be tensioned just right so you can pull it back.
Many people don’t think about choosing a left- or right-handed bow. It doesn’t matter that much with children’s bows, but with adults, the difference is very noticeable.
Tip #2: Choose the Right Arrows
While there are many different types of arrows, it is important to choose the right one for your bow/particular skill. Ideally, the arrows should be shoulder-width apart. The opposite leg of the arrow should be slightly wider than the opposing leg.
Likewise, the cock and hen feathers should not be too far apart. While this might not sound like a big deal, it will prevent you from shooting the opposite arrow with any accuracy.
Arrows must fit your bow lengthwise and fit the type of shooting you do. You can find plenty of pairs of arrows and bows on the Internet, but many stores sell them. That way the arrows and bow are matched and you never choose the wrong one.
Tip #3: Consider Gravity and Wind while Aiming and Shooting
Aiming with a bow is not very difficult, but to fully master it takes some practice. The first thing you’ll have to take into account is gravity. Gravity has a bigger impact than you think. It’s best to aim straight at your target, shoot, and then on the second shot try to aim up. In this way, you will soon see how gravity affects your arrows.
You also have to take into account the wind. This is significantly harder to adjust to. You also need to remember to tighten your bow to the same strength every time. If you shoot harder one time than another, you can take gravity and wind into account as much as you like, you will always miss.
Tip: always string the bow up to your lip so you are always sure of the power behind your shot.
Tip #4: Breathe Correctly
Breathing through during shooting exercises is very important for an archer. In accordance with our physical activity, the strength and speed of the muscular work of the entire breathing apparatus should be adjusted; every person has his own breathing rhythm. The combined (belly, flanks, chest) breathing is the most effective.
In addition to this combined breathing, a shooter will use the low abdominal and/or flank breathing. The more intensive the inhalation, the longer the period of time you have to hold your breath (the longer the time between drawing the bow and firing the shot, think of the clicker).
Most western archers breathe low and deep when taking the bow and setting up the arrow. Some let some air out and then hold their breath to exhale after the shot. In America, this breathing regime is followed when shooting. In Germany for example, people do the opposite, breathing in when taking the bow, breathing out and holding all the way while setting up the arrow, only to breathe in again when the shot is made. Determine for yourself which method works best for you.
Tip #5: Practice on Archery Targets
If you are a beginner, we recommend you practice on a small scale and then try shooting the same target again until you become good at it. When it comes to target archery, you need to practice, a lot.
Becoming a good archer doesn’t happen overnight; it requires discipline and patience. But you don’t have to practice for hours on end. We recommend starting with an hour a day and then do more if you feel like you have the concentration to push yourself beyond one hour of archery training.
Tip #6: Take Archery Lessons
If you’re into archery and not aiming to compete you can easily train by yourself. There are numerous experts that you can take lessons from. There are also a lot of archery lessons available on the internet today in the form of various e-books, articles, forums, etc.
Tip #7: Join Archery Competitions
There are many different types of archery. In fact, there are more than a hundred different kinds. There are hundreds of competitions held around the country, and you can join the most popular ones to compete for bragging rights. Some competitions even have live displays and prizes for the top shooters. The best way to improve your game of archery is to practice regularly and get the most out of your skills. It’s not only a sport you can play, but it can be a fun way to stay healthy and active.
Let’s Wrap it Up!
Archery can be fun and competitive for both beginners and experts. It is not only a great way to spend an afternoon, but it can also improve your aiming skills. I hope these archery tips help you to get started as an archer, feel free to message us if you have any questions. Remember to be aware of your breathing and good luck with practicing your aim!
