And the training starts

jcrayford · #1 12-20-2015, 03:44 PM

Well, after a long hunting season I've decided to start training again for bow hunting.

I know I'm not an Olympic level archer, but I also know that I need to practice more for next season than I did for this past season.

I play volleyball and figured that would keep the shoulders in shape, but alas different muscles and movements are being utilized.

So just now, I stepped downstairs and started. Decided that only shooting 9 yards is good to build muscle strength and at this point, that's all to be worked on for the next few weeks. In doing so, I discovered that if I'm sitting on a stool, I can elevate my feet and then draw the bow, utilizing nothing but the shoulders and core muscles to draw and aim. While doing this, I realized also that my practice sessions are extremely short to avoid injury and building bad habits.

My question to all fellow Archers is: what other routines could you suggest to incorporate to break boredom? Keep in mind that I'm talking indoor practice only and primarily to build muscle memory so that when I do start practicing for accuracy, I don't need to work on those muscles at the same time.

J.

normanrd · #2 12-20-2015, 03:52 PM

Imo your training sessions should be for execution and form control. If you practice that, the muscle strength and memory will follow naturally. Focus on your form while drawing, anchoring and settling in. Really key on your release execution and follow through. Shoot at golf tee sized targets and don't be satisfied with being "close". Focus on hitting them every time. Practice is more about form control and execution than it is strength training. If you separate the 2 and strictly focus on strength and stamina then you will likely develop bad habits.

If it bores you, maybe try another sport? Hobbies should be fun right?

Norm

Lefty-Canuck · #3 12-20-2015, 04:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by normanrd

Imo your training sessions should be for execution and form control. If you practice that, the muscle strength and memory will follow naturally. Focus on your form while drawing, anchoring and settling in. Really key on your release execution and follow through. Shoot at golf tee sized targets and don't be satisfied with being "close". Focus on hitting them every time. Practice is more about form control and execution than it is strength training. If you separate the 2 and strictly focus on strength and stamina then you will likely develop bad habits.

If it bores you, maybe try another sport? Hobbies should be fun right?

Norm

Solid advice. I don't find flinging arrows boring even at 2-10 yards. It's actually fun to shoot at 6 yards and under to determine proper hold at different distances.

I agree...a hobby should be fun, to become proficient at archery many many arrows need to be sent down range at all distances.

LC

jcrayford · #4 12-21-2015, 07:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jcrayford

Well, after a long hunting season I've decided to start training again for bow hunting.

I know I'm not an Olympic level archer, but I also know that I need to practice more for next season than I did for this past season.

I play volleyball and figured that would keep the shoulders in shape, but alas different muscles and movements are being utilized.

So just now, I stepped downstairs and started. Decided that only shooting 9 yards is good to build muscle strength and at this point, that's all to be worked on for the next few weeks. In doing so, I discovered that if I'm sitting on a stool, I can elevate my feet and then draw the bow, utilizing nothing but the shoulders and core muscles to draw and aim. While doing this, I realized also that my practice sessions are extremely short to avoid injury and building bad habits.

My question to all fellow Archers is: what other routines could you suggest to incorporate to break ROUTINE? Keep in mind that I'm talking indoor practice only and primarily to build muscle memory so that when I do start practicing for accuracy, I don't need to work on those muscles at the same time.

J.

Sorry gentlemen, wrong choice of words in my original post... Perhaps "ROUTINE" is the better word to use.... And by breaking routine, I mean other things to do when practicing to help build that muscle memory.... Like changing positions, holding draws as long as possible, etc..... In my original post I referenced keeping these "unique" practices short as to NOT build bad habits.

Just wondering if anyone had other "unique" ways of training inside....?

J.

L.O.S.T.Arrow · #5 12-21-2015, 02:24 PM

Join a archery Club..some have game night etc...leagues are fun...try to beat your own score each week...really helps with form and consistancy

Near all the hunters here that shoot winter leagues with hunter tackle...are the sucessfull hunters each year.

Neil

gpelker · #6 12-21-2015, 08:08 PM

Practice doing only 12 shots, but really concentrate on making the perfect shot each time. The one fellow mentioned golf tees, great idea, I use them too.
I also practice holding my draw for 1-2 minutes and then to reset, great for the pushing your muscle limits and getting ready for actual hunting situations
I also use the rubber resistance bands practicing my draw, helps with muscle memory and toning, can easily adjust the pull.

ramonmark · #7 12-21-2015, 08:53 PM

Ummm. When I want to get good At something I practice IT. Shoot your bow. I got to Jim Bows once a week all year. And. When I want more range I find a random field to practice with my own target in. I think your over thinking it. Unless you plan on lifting 160lbs with your one shoulder there is no need to train in alternative ways.

As far as the other routine go. Eat healthy and workout regularly. I ran one iron man, marathon and a near a dozen other mud/spartan races in 2015. Not saying you need to over do it but, just stay healthy. You are what you eat. And DO!

ForwardBias · #8 12-22-2015, 06:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by L.O.S.T.Arrow

Join a archery Club..some have game night etc...leagues are fun...try to beat your own score each week...really helps with form and consistancy

Near all the hunters here that shoot winter leagues with hunter tackle...are the sucessfull hunters each year.

Neil

That was my game plan for 2016. Friendly competition brings out the best in everyone.

ramonmark · #9 12-22-2015, 07:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ramonmark

Ummm. When I want to get good At something I practice IT. Shoot your bow. I got to Jim Bows once a week all year. And. When I want more range I find a random field to practice with my own target in. I think your over thinking it. Unless you plan on lifting 160lbs with your one shoulder there is no need to train in alternative ways.

As far as the other routine go. Eat healthy and workout regularly. I ran one iron man, marathon and a near a dozen other mud/spartan races in 2015. Not saying you need to over do it but, just stay healthy. You are what you eat. And DO!

Sorry. I just reread your original post and I completely came off as an A-hole. I miss understood your thread. It appears you weren't searching for advise on practice but just curious on what others do. Keep up the good work.