Ok, we’ve shot the arrow at the target. What happens now?

Take a couple relaxing breaths. Release any physical or mental tension related to the shot. And then take a moment to mentally review that shot. This should be an unemotional analysis; since an extreme emotional reaction (either happy or frustrated) can affect the next shot.

Some things to review:

Shot placement –

Where did the arrow hit in relation to the target you’re aiming at?

                May suggest issues with aim, release, or follow through

Is there a group forming? Is it a tight group or a scattered one?

                Wide or scattered groups suggest inconsistency with form, grip, or release

                A tight but off-centered group suggests a minor issue with aim point

Stages of the shot –

Stance, Posture –were you balanced and steady? Arms and torso in the correct position?

Hook and Grip – were your hands relaxed and consistent?

                Tense grip can torque (rotate) the bow

Set up – Bow arm extended but not locked? Remained steady on target, didn’t drop or wave around?

Draw – was it steady and consistent length with other shots?

                Inconsistent draw length can cause variations in arrow speed and aim

Anchor Point – did you have a consistent one with other shots?

Release – was it smooth and controlled? Plucky or sticky? How did it sound?

                Jerking or plucking the string can cause the arrow to veer off target

                Sticking or releasing one finger at a time can also affect aim and arrow speed

Follow Through – was stance maintained, focus on stayed on target, hands made small and controlled motions to their final positions? Did you notice any hand shock (bow hand vibration)?

                Unwanted movement can affect the arrow’s trajectory

Focus during the shot –

Were you calm and focused throughout the shot? Were you distracted by something?

                Distractions can impact consistency

Was your breathing consistent and calm?

                Inconsistent or forced breathing can affect stability, consistency, and focus

Will you make intentional changes?

Is there something specific you want to work on, something specific that felt off?

Now is the time to review everything and decide if you want to make any intentional changes.

Make a plan with yourself – change one thing, set a goal for testing that change.

Talk with your instructor –

                They may suggest specific drills or adjustments to match your plan.

                They may be able to video some shots for comparison.

Journaling (most often done at the end of practice) –

If you want, take a moment to record your observations and any patterns you noticed.

Write down possible causes for inconsistencies.

Talk with your instructor to see if they observed anything and had not yet commented on it.

Over time, tracking feedback can help pinpoint recurrent issues so that you can work on weak areas.

Tracking will also give you a chance to record high points and reinforce good habits.

Also this is a good opportunity to write down any questions that pop up.

Having said all this, if something feels wrong or difficult or hurts while shooting, talk with your instructor. Sometimes accommodations (alternatives) need to be used.

We’ve reached the final article in our Fundamentals of Shooting Archery series. These articles are intended to supplement and further explain any instructions given or terminology used by the instructors and assistants.

If you have any questions about these articles or anything to do with archery, ask your instructor. They’ll help you get the answers you want and you might even prompt a future article.

Posted in Archery Article and tagged