Archery Stance

Summary

In this video, Scott from Archery 360 teaches archers how to properly stand when shooting a bow for maximum stability and accuracy. He covers key elements such as foot placement, aligning hips and shoulders, and maintaining a good posture. The video explains two main stances—closed and open—and how each provides unique benefits, especially for stability in varying conditions. Scott encourages viewers to experiment with different stances to find the one that works best for them and emphasizes the importance of consistency in their shot process.

Takeaways

• 😀 Feet should be shoulder-width apart or slightly wider to provide a stable base for archery stance.
• 😀 Your posture is essential—keep your hips in line with your legs and shoulders aligned with your feet to maintain balance.
• 😀 Avoid a 'hollow back' posture (spine curving into a 'C' shape) when drawing your bow for proper form.
• 😀 Your center of gravity should be over your feet, with a slight forward tilt toward the balls of your feet for better stability.
• 😀 A closed stance is when your toes are aligned and your shoulders point directly to the target—ideal for alignment but can be restrictive in certain conditions.
• 😀 An open stance requires you to keep your hips aligned with your feet, not your shoulders, for better balance and stability.
• 😀 To prevent discomfort with an open stance, press down with your lead foot to keep your hips aligned with your feet.
• 😀 The open stance is often preferred in windy conditions due to its increased stability, as you coil around your core and press down with your front foot.
• 😀 Finding a happy medium between a closed and open stance can be a good option, offering both alignment and flexibility in your shot.
• 😀 It’s important to practice all types of stances—closed, open, and hybrid—to find what feels most stable and natural for you.
• 😀 Establishing a consistent process for setting your feet before each shot helps maintain proper form and consistency in your archery practice.

Q & A

Why is a stable stance important when shooting a bow?

A stable stance ensures that you have proper alignment and balance, which is crucial for making accurate and consistent shots. It helps you maintain control over the bow, especially in varying conditions like wind.

What is the recommended foot placement for a good archery stance?

Your feet should be about shoulder-width apart or slightly wider to provide a stable base. This width helps maintain balance and allows you to be steady while shooting.

How does posture affect your archery form?

Proper posture aligns your shoulders, hips, and feet, keeping your spine straight. A good posture ensures that your center of gravity is over your feet, promoting stability and effective shooting.

What is a hollow back, and why should you avoid it?

A hollow back occurs when your spine curves in a 'C' shape, which can lead to poor posture and instability. It's important to maintain a straight back to ensure proper alignment and avoid discomfort while shooting.

What is a closed stance in archery?

A closed stance is when your toes are pointed directly toward the target, and your shoulders follow this alignment. This stance helps with the proper alignment of the body and is beneficial for drawing the bow.

What is the main advantage of using a closed stance?

The main advantage of a closed stance is that your shoulders are already pointed at the target, which helps maintain proper alignment when you draw the bow, making the shot more efficient.

How do you perform an open stance in archery?

In an open stance, your body faces slightly away from the target. While your feet stay aligned with the target, your shoulders remain open. It's important to keep your hips in line with your feet to maintain balance.

What is the key to making an open stance stable?

The key to stability in an open stance is ensuring that your hips remain aligned with your feet, not with your shoulders. You can press down with your lead foot to keep your hips in place, preventing unnecessary twisting.

Can you combine both stances? What is a hybrid stance?

Yes, you can combine both stances into a hybrid stance. A hybrid stance is a happy medium where you slightly open up from a closed stance, offering the benefits of both without fully committing to either one.

How should you decide which stance is right for you?

To determine the best stance for you, try both open and closed stances and see which one feels more stable and comfortable. Your archery coach can also help guide you based on your shooting style and form.