What is the best archery stance for beginners?

As a beginner in the exciting world of archery, one of the first things you’ll learn is the importance of a proper stance. Your stance sets the foundation for accurate and consistent shots.

But with various archery styles and techniques out there, you might wonder: what is the best archery stance for beginners?

Today, we’ll explore different archery stances and provide guidance on finding the ideal stance to kick-start your archery journey. Remember, it is the first step of the archery shot cycle so it is as important as the other steps.

What is the best archery stance for beginners?

Two primary archery stances are commonly used by beginners: the square stance and the open stance. Each stance offers distinct advantages, and selecting the right one depends on factors such as your dominant eye, shooting style, and personal preference.

Square Stance

The square stance is a straightforward and balanced position, making it popular among beginners.

Here’s how to adopt the square stance:
a. Stand perpendicular to the target with your feet shoulder-width apart.
b. Position your non-dominant side (left side for right-handed archers) facing the target.
c. Align your shoulders and hips parallel to the shooting line.
d. Keep your weight evenly distributed on both feet.
e. This stance is suitable for archers who prefer a more traditional and consistent shooting experience.

The square stance is often used by Korean recurve archers. Hence, it is also considered as the “textbook” stance by many.

Why you should shoot with a Square Stance?

The square stance is the basic stance taught in many archery schools. This is because it is easier to master compared to the other stances.

Here are some reasons why you should shoot with a square stance.

Alignment: Getting into alignment is easier with a square stance. All you have to do is to twist your body a little bit and make sure that your hips and shoulders are parallel to the shooting line.

Stability and Balance: One of the key advantages of the square stance is its inherent stability and balance. By standing perpendicular to the target with your feet shoulder-width apart, you create a solid foundation. This stability allows for better control of your body and bow, reducing unnecessary movement that could affect your aim.

Consistency and Reproducibility: The square stance promotes consistency in your shooting form. With your shoulders and hips aligned parallel to the shooting line, you establish a repeatable position for each shot. This consistency helps develop muscle memory and enables you to reproduce your technique more accurately, leading to improved shot-to-shot consistency.

Simplified Aiming: The square stance simplifies the aiming process, especially for beginners. With your body squarely facing the target, your line of sight is aligned directly with the aiming point. This alignment makes it easier to establish proper sight alignment and focus on your target, reducing the potential for alignment errors.

Open Stance

The open stance involves angling your body slightly towards the target, providing increased stability and aiming precision.

Follow these steps to adopt the open stance:
a. Position your non-dominant side (left side for right-handed archers) forward at a slight angle (around 45 degrees) towards the target.
b. Place your rear foot perpendicular to the shooting line.
c. Align your shoulders and hips parallel to the target.
d. This stance is beneficial for archers who prefer a more dynamic and versatile shooting style, particularly in field archery or when shooting at moving targets.

Why shoot with an Open Stance?

The open stance has some advantages and disadvantages. Here are some reasons why you should shoot with an Open Stance.

Increased Stability and Balance: The open stance provides archers with enhanced stability. By positioning your non-dominant side (left side for right-handed archers) forward at a slight angle towards the target, you create a wider base of support. This wider stance improves balance, especially when dealing with uneven terrain or when shooting in challenging outdoor conditions.

Better Alignment and Aiming Precision: Angling your body towards the target in an open stance aligns your dominant eye with the target more naturally. This alignment improves your sight picture and helps you aim more accurately. By having a clearer line of sight and reducing the need for excessive head or body movements, you can focus on your target and achieve better aiming precision.

Flexibility and Versatility: The open stance offers greater flexibility and adaptability, making it an excellent choice for archers engaged in field archery or when shooting at moving targets. The angled position allows for better rotation of the upper body, enabling you to track targets more effectively. It also facilitates a smoother transition between different shooting angles and shooting positions, providing versatility in various archery scenarios.

Finding the Right Archery Stance for Beginners

While the square and open stances are commonly used, it’s important to remember that individual preferences may vary. Here are a few tips to help you find the ideal stance:

Experiment: Try both stances during practice sessions and see which one feels more comfortable and natural. Pay attention to your balance, stability, and shooting consistency.

Consider Dominant Eye: If you have a dominant eye that differs from your dominant hand, choosing a stance that aligns your dominant eye with the target can enhance your aim and accuracy.

Seek Guidance: If possible, consult with an experienced archery coach or instructor who can provide personalized advice and assess your technique to recommend the best stance for your specific needs.

Practice and Adjust: As you progress in your archery journey, continue refining your stance. Regular exercise and self-evaluation will help you identify any areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments.

Archery stance for beginners: Final Thoughts

While there’s no definitive “best” archery stance for beginners, the square and open stances serve as excellent starting points. Remember that finding the right stance is a personal journey, and it may require experimentation and guidance from experienced archers.

Focus on maintaining balance, stability, and consistency in your shots. With dedication, practice, and an open mind, you’ll discover the stance that suits you best and lays the foundation for your archery success. Happy shooting!