With their fluid moves and definitive aim, experienced archers make it look easy to hit a target. They simply come to the target, stand up tall and shoot. But when you first pick up a bow and arrow, you are apt to feel clumsy and to send your shots all over the place. Don't rush into archery. You'll have better luck hitting the target if you learn the proper stance and steps in the beginning.
Step 1
Assume the correct stance before you lift your bow. Stand at a right angle to the target with your shoulders relaxed. Place your feet shoulder width apart, with your weight distributed equally. This helps you stay balanced, according to the Centenary Archers Club. Keep this steady stance throughout your shot and subsequent shots. The club recommends using foot markers to help you stay consistent.
Step 2
Nock the arrow, which means to put it in the right position. You'll find a nocking point on the string, and you should nock your arrow just under it, according to Learn Archery. You hear a snap when the arrow is in place. Hold the bow with one hand, and use the other hand to hold, or hook, the string. Do this by putting your pointer finger above the nock and your next two fingers under it. Don't use your little finger.
Step 3
Use one motion to raise the bow and arrow. According to Discover a Hobby, you should hold your bow arm straight out toward the target and your string hand toward the side of your mouth or your chin. The arrow should extend an inch or two beyond the bow if your equipment is the correct size.
Step 4
Aim at your target. If you have a sight pin, use your bow arm to place it at the center of the target. As you take aim, you should recheck your stance and make sure your bow is in a vertical position, according to the Centenary Archers Club. If things don't feel right, go back to the beginning before you shoot.
Step 5
Shoot the arrow by releasing the bowstring from your three fingers at one time. After shooting, your bow hand will drop forward and the fingers of your string hand will rest near your neck. According to Learn Archery, you should stay in place until your arrow hits the target.
Tips and Warnings
- Ask someone to watch while you shoot and to help you correct your mistakes. According to VisionRealization, two common errors are taking a wrong stance and drawing the arrow back inconsistently from one shot to the next.
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