The Correct Shooting Form in Traditional Archery

Taking the correct shooting form in traditional archery is something that only comes through repetition, practice and perseverance. There are many minor aspects that you must put together in order to adopt the correct shooting form, including the way you stand (stance), position and movements of your hands and arms, alignment of your body with the bow and the technique of releasing (loosing) the arrow.

Stance

Align yourself with your target so that you are standing straight onwards with the target parallel to your body with your feet shoulder's width apart. Take a deep breath to help keep yourself relaxed and at ease in your standing position.

Position of the Hands

Pick up the bow with your weaker hand and, while holding the arrow in your stronger hand, position the arrow against the string so your index finger is just above the nock and your second and third fingers are directly beneath the nock. Rest the handle of the bow in the fleshy part of your weaker hand between the thumb and index finger so you can easily support and aim the bow. Relax this hand into an approximate 45-degree angle so your fingers are relaxed around the handle --- your thumb and fingers might touch, but this is not a problem.

Position of the Torso and Head

Bring the bow upward so your weaker arm is perpendicular to your body. Turn your bow-holding elbow away from the string so you have a stable base to release from. Keep your shoulders low and relaxed as you pull back the arrow directly horizontally with your stronger hand. Pull in your back muscles so your shoulder blades move closer together. Draw the string and arrow back so the string rests on the face of your chin and your index finger rests on your chin's underside. The string of the bow should now run along your chin, nose and forehead and be in between your eyes. Make sure your teeth are locked together.

Release

Close your weaker eye and aim using your dominant eye. Draw the string slightly left of the sight so you can see the target. Relax the fingers around the nock of the arrow once you are happy with your aim. Maintain your aim as the arrow is released --- your string hand should end up just outside your ear, while the bow will tilt forward in a smooth motion.