archery drills to improve accuracy! Want to tighten your groups and hit bullseyes consistently? These 7 professional archery drills will transform your accuracy faster than endless target practice. I’ve tested these with Olympic coaches and hunting pros – they work for compound, recurve, and traditional bows.
1. Blank Bale Drill (5 Yards)
Start just 5 yards from a blank target (no bullseye). Shoot 20 arrows focusing ONLY on:
- Perfect stance (feet shoulder-width)
- Smooth draw to anchor point
- Clean release
This eliminates target panic and builds muscle memory. Do this before every practice session.
2. Three-Arrow Group Challenge
Shoot 3 arrows back-to-back at 20 yards, aiming for the same spot. Measure the spread:
- 3″ group = Good
- 2″ group = Excellent
- 1″ group = Pro-level
This exposes inconsistencies in your form.
3. Variable Distance Drill
Set up targets at 20, 30, and 40 yards. Alternate between them randomly. This improves:
- Distance judgment
- Sight picture adjustment
- Anchor point consistency
Hunters: Practice from elevated positions too.
4. Eyes-Closed Release
Draw normally, then close your eyes before release. Focus on:
- Finger/back tension
- Surprise release
- Follow-through
This sharpens your kinesthetic awareness – crucial for instinctive shooters.
5. Pressure Shot Simulation
Give yourself consequences:
- “Must hit 3 bullseyes before water break”
- “If I miss, 10 pushups”
This mimics competition/trophy hunt pressure.
6. Anchor Point Checklist
Verbally confirm each anchor point before shooting:
- “Nose touching string”
- “Hand to jawbone”
- “String to lip”
Say it out loud – you’ll catch form flaws immediately.
7. Moving Target Exercise
Hang a tennis ball from a string at 15 yards. Shoot it while:
- Swinging slightly
- Alternating between 2+ targets
This improves dynamic aiming for 3D courses and moving game.
Pro Tips for Fast Results
- Film your sessions (phone slow-mo works)
- Focus on one drill per week
- Measure groups with a coin (quarter = 1″)
- Combine with strength training (rows/pull-ups help)
Most archers see dramatic improvement in 2-3 weeks. Remember: Perfect practice makes perfect shots – don’t reinforce bad habits!
Next Step: Try our “Archery Form Checklist” to fix common mistakes.
Why These Drills Work:
✅ Science-backed (motor learning principles)
✅ Adaptable to all bow types
✅ Measureable progress
✅ 20+ years of pro validation
Need a printable drill sheet? DM me info@elitearcher.com! 🎯
