ARCHERY – AT ANY AGE

Perhaps the most underrated element of archery as a sport is its immense flexibility, allowing participation at multiple levels and in many different ways. Archery is a sport in which supreme fitness and physical strength are not essential ingredients. You can shoot a bow of your choice virtually for life, in a competitive framework or simply as a pleasurable activity. As its power as a para sport shows, you don’t even need a fully functioning set of limbs.

One clear positive is that the physical activity of drawing and releasing repeatedly on a regular basis is a great boost to muscle tone and circulation – even with the most stringent and disciplined of programmes, age does finally have an impact. Another positive by-product is the chance to mix with fellow enthusiasts of all ages, and to be competitive in one’s own division if you feel like competing. Of course, the camaraderie and social element, coupled with the simple pleasure of an outdoor activity, can be a huge benefit, both physically and mentally. Barebow, in particular, is notable for a strong and friendly online presence, which spans the whole world.

The inevitable drops away in performance need not be disastrous if the archer is able and willing to stay fit and keen to practise. An obvious blessing for those in retirement is that there is more time to devote to staying in shape and putting in the arrows. There are also opportunities for holidays with like-minded people in various well-known spots around the globe.

A considerable bonus many older archer have found, especially those returning to the fold, is that any nerves and apprehensive feelings they had as an aspiring archer in their ‘prime’ have given way to a much more relaxed and composed approach.