Have you ever aimed at the same place on the target, and your arrows hit a different spot every time? It’s likely related to your form.
Did you know every archer has slightly different form? According to Bow and Arrow HQ, “Aside from using a properly tuned bow, another critical element in archery is developing an effective archery form. Your bow and your form should work together perfectly so you can develop your own archery technique.” Although we all may shoot differently, using your special technique every time should give your shots consistency.
Form can and will make a big difference in your scores. It is especially important in NASP® archery, because Genesis bows do not have sights for aiming. If you think, “Yeah, form is good but it takes too long. I just want to shoot”, then you are skipping the most important step.
Archeryschooling.com says, “if you shoot without a set position, you introduce more variation in your shot proficiency.” A set position is a position that you go to every time before you release an arrow. Without a set position, you will deliver every arrow differently. Form is most important in making a good shot every time. You should focus on what’s happening with your body at the shooting line before what’s happening at the target, because good form at the line will create good results at the target.
In NASP®, it’s very common to see the same shooting technique because we all shoot the same bows and arrows. Genesis bows have a universal size and draw length, one cam, and no sights. A simple bow makes it easier for beginner archers to learn the basics of shooting. I often see high scoring NASP® archers using the NASP® technique, straddling the shooting line with their feet and body perpendicular to the line like a plus sign. Once their alignment is correct, the archers draw the bowstring back with three fingers until their draw hand is under their cheekbone. This helps with consistency because the draw is always to the same spot. Posture, holding time and release also play a big role in form and accuracy, but it’s important to find what works for you based on your strength and size.
In conclusion, finding an effective form and using it with every shot plays a vital role in being an accurate archer. Your form may be slightly different than the person shooting next to you, but that’s because we are all built differently. Anyone can shoot one good shot, but to shoot well every time, you must have consistent, comfortable form.
Always remember to have fun and be confident, and shooting with good form can help with both.
-Bryleigh McKeithan is a 2022 student contributor. Watch for her future submissions.-
