Different bows all have their own characteristics when it comes to how it looks, shoots, and feels. The recurve bow design looks like a slender limb of wood that is tied back to form a bow. Due to its structure and shape, recurve bows store more energy, so their shots are faster and more powerful compared to others. If you recently purchased one from your local archery pro shop, here are some practice tips on the proper technique.

How to Shoot a Recurve Bow

1. Keep a Solid Stance

A proper archery stance will allow you to have more power and control in every shot. Typically, there are two archery positions: square and open stances. The square stance is where you stand with your feet shoulder length apart.

For the open stance, you take a small step back with your nondominant foot, and you angle it a little towards the target. In both positions, your shoulders need to face away from the target, and your knees should be comfortably bent to maintain balance.   

2. Point Your Elbow Away From You

You can tell if you have a proper bow grip based on the direction of your elbow. If you are gripping the bow too tightly, then your arm will rotate, and your elbows will be pointing to your feet, and your forearm will be inline with the bowstring.

Your forearm could get snapped with the bowstring, which will result in an injury or multi-colored bruising. When you line up your shot, make sure that your knuckles are at 45 degrees with the bow and that your elbow is pointing away from you. 

3. Put Your Back Into It

Similar to lifting with your legs, you also shoot with your back. Flex and use your back muscles every time you line up a shot. If you rely solely on your arm muscles, they will eventually get tired and fatigued. 

4. Invest in a Good Shooting Glove

Visit your local archery pro shop and invest in a shooting glove for your string-pulling hand. You could start to feel pain in your fingers from practicing since you will be consistently pulling against strings with stiff resistance. Purchase the proper hand protection to avoid any nerve damage in the future.  

For an archery pro shop that will help you establish proper archery techniques, go to M & M Archery Range and Pro Shop in Florence, KY. Even if you have purchased your bow from another store, they will help you with any adjustments that your bow might need. This family-friendly business has been training archers of all ages for over 20 years. For information about training classes, go to their website or call (859) 282-6333.