Whether you are young or old, tall or short, left-handed or right – you can become a successful archer as long as you get the right start. Archery is a sport that has been around since the early ages and is currently one of the fastest growing sports in the United States.
These 5 tips will put you on the path to success:
- Eye dominance will determine whether someone should shoot right or left-handed. Determining eye dominance is a vital step for accurate shooting since the bowstring should be directly in front of the dominant eye. More often than not, most will assume the dominant eye will coincide with their dominant hand; however, this is not always the case.
- Proper bow fitting is everything. One of the most common problems that new archers experience when picking up a bow for the first time is using equipment that doesn't fit them properly. Appropriate draw length and weight are crucial. Incorrect draw length and weight will promote poor shooting form. Poor shooting form will lead to poor accuracy. Poor accuracy tends to lead to frustration that can, and often does, lead to quitting the sport. By starting out with equipment that fits you and that you are comfortable shooting, you will quickly gain confidence, which will lead to satisfaction and enjoyment.
- Choose a bow that will "grow" with you. No one wants to buy a bow that they will need to replace a year later. Beginning archers (especially ones younger than 15) should start with a bow that has a wide range of adjustability in both draw length and weight. As the youngster grows, the bow will grow with them. Likewise, a beginning adult archer should purchase a bow with enough quality and durability to continue on in the sport for several years without needing to "upgrade." With the wide variety of bows and accessories available today from quality manufacturers, the new archer has a large number of options to fit their interests and budgets.
- You need HELP. For the beginner, enlisting the help of a knowledgeable, service-oriented archery pro shop that demonstrates a passion for target archery and bowhunting will save not only time, but frustration. Much like the sport of golf, new participants will benefit greatly from guidance of experienced professionals who care about the sport and love sharing it with others.
Focus on Fun.
We can learn a lot from the young ones on this point. Children don't necessarily care about score. To them, the name of the game is FUN. By making archery fun, shooting becomes an enjoyable experience that they will likely participate in throughout their lifetime. Set the stage for success by selecting proper archery equipment, proper instruction, and an emphasis on fun – not results. Results will come as the new archer, young or old, becomes familiar with their equipment and the fundamentals of shooting. Archery provides the opportunity to participate in a lifetime sport with family and friends. It also teaches and encourages hand-eye coordination, discipline, patience, confidence and focus.
If you're ready to get your start as an archer, Olde English Outfitters has the supplies you need. Stop in and visit today.
