Blank Bale Practice Question?

[Dan Landis]

Recently changed from instinctive to gap/instinctive style of shooting.  I could never get the consistency I would like is why I changed styles.  My question is:  How long does it typically take to develop muscle memory, shot sequence, etc. when a change like this is made?

[moebow]

Dan,

The "coaching" theory on changing or making a new habit is 21 practice sessions WITHOUT deviating.  That is going back at any time to check an old procedure.  I see many that try something new  and accept or reject it after a single session or just a few.

You've got to give the "new" and your self a fair chance at the change being good.

Arne

[McDave]

There are several reasons for being inconsistent, including your aiming technique.  However, an even more important reason people can be inconsistent is if they are unaware of what their body is doing during the shot.  One reason blank bale practice is valuable is because it can (if you let it) remove all the noise from your mind and let you focus on what your body is doing during the shot.  You can learn perfect form from the best instructor/coach in the world, but if you are unaware that you put a little torque on the string from time to time, don't always relax your string hand, move your anchor slightly, or move your head during the shot, or 101 other things, then you will continue to be inconsistent.  Becoming aware of what you are doing during the shot is a lifelong process. Once you learn to recognize the basic things, like those I mentioned, you will be a pretty good shot.  Then you will begin to become aware of the subtle things that will make you an excellent shot.

[Dan Landis]

Thanks for the responses, Arne and Dave.  I tried blank bale shooting some time ago, probably a year now, but only shot 20 to 30 arrows with my eyes closed, while concentrating on form & sequence. Then I went back to shooting my normal 15 to 25 yds.  It seemed like it helped for a while then the inconsistencies started to show up again.  

When I shoot instinctive my misses ore usually high.  Since I've added the gap into my shot sequence I can usually be in a 6 to 10" group, with a few strays.