Hi Enso Archers,

As we enter the new year, I know it can feel strange not to be on the range during our two-month hiatus. Whether you’re used to weekly sessions or simply miss the sound of arrows hitting targets, these breaks can actually be a great opportunity to grow as an archer. While we may not be practicing together, there’s plenty you can do to stay sharp and prepare for our return.

Reset and Revisit the Basics

January is an ideal time to slow down, catch our breath, and prepare for a fresh start on the range. Remember archery is a mental, physical, and technical activity.

Mental

Take some time this month to reflect on last season.  Were there areas where you struggled? Mentally, let go of any frustration or bad habits you may have picked up and instead visualize your stance, grip, draw, and release, imagine yourself executing each step of the shot perfectly, from nocking the arrow to hitting the bullseye. This mental practice helps reinforce muscle memory even when you’re not actively shooting.

Physical

Archery requires a combination of physical strength, stability, and endurance. During the hiatus is a great time to try some of the following:

Cross-Training: Strength training, yoga, or Pilates can be used to improve core stability, shoulder strength, and flexibility, which are crucial for archery.

Targeted Exercises: For example, shoulder mobility, grip strength, and core strength exercises, to prevent injury and improve shooting precision.

Outdoor Activities: Activities like hiking or climbing build endurance and connect us with nature, similar to the outdoor elements of archery.

Try setting aside some time regularly to maintain and build your strength. Also check the Enso Archery Library to read our articles on Stretching for Archery.

Technical

In addition to visualization, take time to assess your actual stance, grip, draw, and release. Stand in front of a mirror and use a bow, stretchband, and/or broomstick to go through the steps of shooting. If using a bow, do not release the string without an arrow to absorb the energy, this causes damage to the bow.

Look for such things as – Are your feet positioned properly? Is your grip relaxed yet secure? Are you maintaining proper posture throughout the whole sequence?

Read through the 2024 Fundamentals of Archery series for tips on what to look for at each step.

Maintain Your Gear

A hiatus is the perfect time for a little TLC for the equipment. If you have your own equipment, take a moment to look it over for signs of wear or damage and make sure it’s repaired and stored correctly. The Enso instructors will be working on the following over the next couple months:

Bows: Checking for signs of wear, such as frayed strings and loose servings, or other damage.

Arrows: Cleaning away any dirt or debris and inspecting vanes and fletchings for damage.

Accessories: Organizing tabs, shooting gloves, and other items to be ready for action when we return.

Targets: Checking haybales and other targets for damages, repairing or replacing as necessary.

Range: Clearing obstacles, planning changes

Stay Inspired

Even though we’re not practicing together right now, you can still immerse yourself in archery. Watch professional competitions online for inspiration. Read books or articles about technique, history, or legendary archers. Find a movie or tv show, some of them make archery exciting.

Look Ahead

I know the hiatus will feel like a long stretch, but it’s also an opportunity to return stronger, more focused, and ready to hit the bullseye. If you put in a small effort now, it will pay off later.

See you in a couple of months, and until then—keep aiming high!

Posted in Archery