How to hit the gold?

The ultimate question. It is never easy to answer. If it is something simple, the sport won’t be fun. Accuracy is the key. To solve the problem we need to know what are the tasks an archer needs to perform and the requirements of them in order to be accurate.

World Archery (WA) Level 1 Coaching material has a very clean explanation on it. So let me just quote what is mentioned.

The goal of archery is extremely simple: to put an arrow into the target center, ten-zone, gold, or bulls eye etc., whatever you call it, and then repeat. In order to achieve this goal, Two things have to be repeated in every shot. WA explains the two essential items under ballistic concept: First the position of arrows in space. Second the propulsion force applied to the arrow.

For the archer’s tasks, an archer will have to repeat his shooting form with perfection, this includes: first, the position of all the parts of one’s body in relation to the target. This secures arrows in the same position in space. Second, the technique to release the string correctly. This provides the same propulsion force to the arrows.

Beginners are rarely knowledgeable nor so clear-minded about the ballistic concept or the tasks archers need to do. When people first get the bow and arrow, a very common mistake is that they think, or at least they act like so, that arrows will hit as long as they aim well. Aiming is necessary, but it is only a very small part of the whole shooting routine. It only helps to secure the position of the front part of the arrow in space, assuming our aiming eye stays at the same location every shot. In order to repeat the position of the whole arrow in space, we need to secure the rear part of the arrow as well. Arrow nock position in space is affected by techniques e.g. stance, body posture, anchor and head orientation etc.

The next thing has to be repeated is the energy given to the arrow. Many factors are affecting this including skill and technique e.g. body posture, the feeling of motion and movements, muscle tension, body balance, and speed of execution etc. Mental status is also what we should be aware of e.g. stay relaxed, be…

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