Minor tweaks make a difference!

My goal for the weekend was to work on pulling the bow back, become comfortable with a new anchor point and begin to gain confidence with the release. To accomplish this I wanted my target right in front of me and at shoulder height.  Working with the release I worked over the strap and the buckle.  I made the strap tight enough to know I wouldn't have to worry about the release sliding off of my hand as I pulled the bow back.  Like any weapon stay away from the trigger until you are on target. I grabbed an old 455 grain arrow and stuck it in the bow to ensure the ultimate sin of dry firing the bow wasn't committed.  NEVER pull your bow back with a release without an arrow in the bow.

I started by pulling the release with my elbow up high and the rigid bar between my index and middle fingers.  It was very difficult to get more than three shots in a row. I would shoot as much as I could and then take a break.  This went on for the first day. At the end of the first day I began to feel some muscle strain in my shoulder and lower back.  I asked my wife to come out and watch my struggle. She informed me she could see why my lower back was strained because I was twisting my back in order to get to full draw. It was soon after she left that I had my first and only misfire.  For some reason I hadn't tucked my fingers under the trigger and had extended my index finger over the top of the trigger as I was pulling it back.  Because I lost my focus I lowered my index finger and the release went off before I was even 1/4 of the way into my draw.  No harm was done as I always try to pull straight back and in line with my target. Immediately I  knew it was time to de done for the day. Retiring to the house a pain reliever and some sports cream on my lower back and shoulder was in order. I felt great to start the second day but half way through it wasn't getting easier so I chose to change the way I was pulling the bow back. Here's what I did.... I changed my grip on the release by having all of my fingers on the trigger side of the release and my thumb on the other. I now keep my elbow in tight to my side as I pull the bow back and then bring the bow up and lock in my anchor. It is much more comfortable for me to pull the bow back and I'm shooting many times in a row. The elbow still stays high once the arrow is released. If what you're doing isn't working for you tweak your form. Ask a friend or spouse to watch your form. You could even video yourself but always stay focused on your goals.