Class Space

Why do we use a short range?

Mostly because of a change in weather and/or season.  During winter, it is dark before classes even start and often raining or wet. There might even be snow on the ground. During the rest of the year, in rain or extreme sun the instructors may choose to use this or other shorter, semi-covered range areas.

What is the short range we use?

In winter, classes will be in the Cedar Dojang (the covered deck beside the main building). Our winter ranges are 5-10 yards.

Other seasonal short ranges will be 5-15 yards, depending on location.

Are the targets different?

We mainly use the same targets from our field range. But we have the opportunity (at the instructor’s discretion) to use others that are not feasible in the field.

Equipment

Is the equipment different?

We use the same archery equipment. Students may try different equipment, with the instructor’s supervision, to work on different aspects of shooting.

Benefits

What are some of the benefits of short range/indoor practice?

Short range shooting uses exactly the same muscles & techniques as regular field shooting. Students continue working on creating their “muscle memory” and mental focus.

Short range(s) reduce the risk of missing the target and generally lead to more arrows hitting closer to the center of the target. Both of which allow the students to relax & focus more on their fundamentals.

Closer targets also allow students to make minute changes to their stance, draw, or aim and get immediate feedback with less walking. They can see where every arrow hits the target.

Short Range Practice Shoots

Our instructors have a list of short range practice shoots they can set up to add variety.

Some ideas include:

Blank target – allow students to focus on execution rather than target point, helps reduce over-thinking

Blind shoot – allow students to draw, aim, settle to anchor with eyes closed, then open eyes for a basic check before release, helps students bring focus to the mechanics of the shot

Moving target – allow students to practice faster aim/execution, reduces over-thinking

Glow targets (shoot in the dark) – removes excess visual information, helps students focus on form & execution

Sitting (kneeling) – allow students to try changing their stance/body position in a safe, controlled environment

Other

What Other Things Can I Do To Enhance My Archery?

Add some at home stretching to help maintain flexibility and core strength. Check out the Enso Center Archery Program for archery stretching suggestions.

Try yoga to work on stability, balance, and core strength. Check the Enso Center Elemental Yoga Program for more information or our class schedules at Class Schedule

Stay hydrated to ease muscle aches.

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