Better release

[WHC86]

I just started shooting a recurve 3 weeks ago . i was wondering if anyone could tell me how to get a better release . Someone told me back tension but im not really sure what that means . any information would be greatly appreciated.

[cvarcher]

Assuming your using a leather glove, try holding back your pinky while using the index over and the middle and fourth finger under the arrow while nocked on the string. It forms a resilient hook.It will be awkward at first and if you tighten your grip you will turn the string outward and the arrow will turn with it off the shelf. Instead relax the grip as your drawing which will put pressure turnng the string inward and holding the arrow against the shelf better.When you end your draw the gloved string hand should get a solid anchor using the index or middle finger to the corner of your mouth everytime.Upon release the hand never moves off the face.Try this for a while.

[Terry Green]

There's a lot of info on this forum....just start looking around....start with the threads stickied at the top.....and do some searches.

[Jacko]

You create back tension by locking your anchor and pushing forward with your bow arm . If you try this without a bow in your hand you will get a better feeling of the muscles between your shoulder blades working .On release if your fingers are angled down slightly & relaxed its a sign of backtension . There will be slight movement backwards but many people also exagerate this and try to kid themselves they have massive back tension , if fingers are pointing straight out and rigid , not so much happening . A good release is all in the front arm , its about creating a balance with your bow arm and drawing arm between your shouler blades , if one has more tension than the other - form collapses . I like the swing draw that John Schultz coaches in his video it sets up that balance well . regards Perry

[Roger Norris]

2 issues ago, in TBM, Fred Asbell wrote the best article about back tension I have ever read.