Pursuing archery in Ottawa and Gatineau can be a fun and exciting new hobby, but there’s more to getting started than just acquiring the appropriate licensing, certifications, and hunting gear. While anyone can shoot a bow, speed and accuracy aren’t developed overnight and even seasoned hunters continue to hone their craft. Although it’s undoubtedly a sport that takes time and practice, going into it with some knowledge under your belt can help make starting out a little easier.
The Right Hunting Gear Is More Important than You Think
While getting the fastest bow is appealing, it’s not always the best way to go – especially for beginners. A faster bow can be harder to draw and shoot, which can decrease your accuracy. Beginners should look for hunting gear that’s more forgiving of error. This usually means a longer, heavier, or slower bow. Getting a heavier bow may seem counterintuitive, but they’re often more stable and easier to hold. Having the right hunting gear as a beginner allows you to grasp the basics and improve your skills more quickly.
Accuracy Trumps Speed
Often times you can maximize your hunting gear for either one or the other. For experienced archers, giving up a little accuracy for more speed isn’t a big deal, but for those new to archery in Ottawa accuracy should be the first priority.
Good Form Makes All the Difference
Just like with golf, stance is a key aspect of archery in Ottawa. Top of the line hunting gear will only get you so far if you don’t practice good form. Here are a few of the basics:
• Place your feet shoulder-width apart, perpendicular to the target.
• Stand up straight, and rotate your hips so they are tucked under your upper body.
• Lower your chest and ribs and roll your shoulders back and down.
• Find where your release hand comfortably meets your face.
• Make sure to balance both hands. If you put all the pressure on your release hand, additional forces will affect your shot.
• Practice makes perfect! Some experts even suggest dedicating two or three sessions to this practice alone.
Make It Fun
Finally, it’s important to make your new archery in Ottawa endeavor fun! If you’re just starting out, chances are you won’t be the next Robin Hood right away, but you know what the best part about a bad shot is? There will always be another one! Just like any other sport, archery is about more than physical skill. It’s about taking the losses with the wins, and enjoying a new hobby.
