5 Jan 2026
Archery might not seem like the most fast-paced sport, but it’s a fantastic way to get active, improve focus, and boost both physical and mental wellbeing. The sport of archery requires precision, control, focus, physical ability and determination.
Top athletes train daily, and for hours at a time, but even recreational archery can carry huge benefits to your health. Whether practised indoors or out, competitively or socially – and despite often being perceived as stationary – archery gets you active, burning calories and in a better state of mind.Â
Find out more here about the incredible health benefits of archery.
Here are some tips to kickstart your year through archery:
1. Start with the Basics
New to Archery? This can be daunting not knowing where you can shoot, what equipment you need as well as understanding basic rules and technique. Visit our New to Archery section on the website here.
Join a local beginners’ course or club to learn proper stance, grip, and draw technique. Majority of clubs have qualified coaches so consider accessing their support and advice. Find a local club here.
Focus on form over power — accuracy comes from consistency, not brute strength.
2. Build Bow Fitness
Incorporate warm up and cool down stretches for shoulders, back, and core to to prepare body & improve stability. Check out this video here for some warm up ideas.
Try resistance bands or bodyweight exercises like planks and rows to mimic archery movements. Here is a video with some exercises.
3. Make It a Mindful Practice
Use each shot as a mini meditation — breathe deeply, block out distractions, and focus on the target.
This helps reduce stress while sharpening focus and concentration.
4. Set Small, Achievable Goals
Aim to improve grouping before increasing distance.
Track your progress in a shooting journal to stay motivated.
5. Mix It Up for Fun
Try different target games or friendly competitions with friends.
Explore outdoor ranges for fresh air (make sure you wrap up if temperatures are low) and varied shooting conditions.
If you have any further questions or queries please just get in touch at admin@scottisharchery.org.uk