Exercise

Confidence

In archery, you can compete against others or against yourself. But the sport isn’t just about hitting bull’s-eyes. Shooting your bow and improving your form with practice also builds self-esteem.

Exercise

Besides working your upper body by drawing your bow, you can expect to walk a lot while moving between targets when shooting target archery or 3-D archery. If you don’t walk during practice sessions, Prevention magazine says drawing a bow burns about 140 calories per half-hour, the same as walking at a brisk, 3.5-mph pace.

Coordination

Many things must happen quickly to execute a good shot. Place your feet. Nock your arrow. Grip the bow, but not too firmly. Push the bow away while pulling the bowstring. Find your anchor point. Release. Many of these steps take just a few seconds, but each affects your shot. Consistent practice builds muscle memory, and your shooting becomes more instinctive.

Strength

Strengthen your arms, core, hands, chest and shoulders by practicing a proper draw. Trying to draw a bow with too much draw weight can cause injury, so begin by having a professional set your bow to the correct draw weight. As you build strength and skill, increase your draw weight.

Focus

Archers learn to tune out all distractions, focus on their form, and release the bowstring consistently. Concentrating during archery practice can help you focus better in other areas of life too. Competing in tournaments is also good practice for coping with high-pressure situations.