How to Improve Bow Draw Strength

If you're an archery enthusiast, you probably realize that the sport is more physically demanding than it may initially appear to a spectator. While bows come in varying draw weights for different athletes' strength levels, there are many advantages in continuing to build your draw strength through training and exercise. Improved draw strength is particularly important for steady aiming and for bow hunters who want to go after bigger game.

Instructions

    • 1

      Stretch thoroughly before any muscle exercises. For archery, be sure to focus on stretches that target the arms, chest and back. Stretching while breathing properly warms and loosens up the muscles before challenging them with weight-bearing exercises. In archery, stretches not only help you avoid injury but also improve your performance through increased upper body flexibility.

    • 2

      Exercise the muscles used in archery motions. One way to be sure to target these muscles safely, without putting excessive strain on them, is to look for specific archery training tools on the market. Resistance bands are a common exercise tool that are also great for simulating bow drawing motions.

    • 3

      Work the surrounding muscles. You risk injury if you limit your training to only the motions and muscles used in archery. Try exercises like push-ups, pull-ups and rowing-style motions that work the chest, back and arms. These other muscles will support and stabilize your arm's draw strength during training and practice.