going up 20-lbs

[bayhunter]

Ok i now it sounds crazy but is it possible to go up 20-lbs, right now im shooting a 22-lb mohengan recurve and i would like to be able to shot a mid 40s recurve so i would be able to go hunting. Does anybody have any tips on how to do this or is it just crazy?
Thanks

[oxnam]

We need more information to give you better help.  How big are you?  How do you handle the 22lbs?  

Usually doubling the weight of the bow is huge but if 22lbs is the starting point you'll probably be alright since it's still and the very light end of the spectrum.  35-40lbs is often recommend as good starting weights.

[Bjorn]

The last thing you want is one step forward and two steps back; 5# at a time and not rushing things is a good way to do it. Do you have access to a mentor of some kind?

[RM81]

Depends on how hard it is to pull back the 22# you're shooting now.  Depending on your size you may go up to 30 or 40.  I'd try out a few bows if you can and see what's comfortable.

[skilonbw]

If you want go you can also develop a wight lifting plan to strengthen your chest back and shoulder muscles so the pulling of the bow is more comfortable.

[CaptainJ]

If you're an average male in decent shape a 42# bow is not too heavy.
Stop shooting when you get tired so your form doesn't suffer.
Tired may come after 5 arrows or 50 depending on the shooter and the day.
What's your size and shape?


CJ

[Rick Richard]

There is a good article in the last Traditional Bowhunter magazine, which talks about a program (cardio/strenght training) for those of us who want to increase draw weight.

I have been following it and I am seeing benefits sice I want to increase my draw weight by 8 - 10 lbs.

Note:  Be very cautious in increaing weight to quickly.  I learned the hard way.

[smoke1953]

With that lighter bow I'm not sure how much you may have developed and utilized your back muscles. If you learn to use those and gradually develop that large muscle group you are not going to have any problem at all. Some kind of rubberband exercise device that allows you to work that group will really help.

[bayhunter]

Originally posted by oxnam:
We need more information to give you better help.  How big are you?  How do you handle the 22lbs?  

Usually doubling the weight of the bow is huge but if 22lbs is the starting point you'll probably be alright since it's still and the very light end of the spectrum.  35-40lbs is often recommend as good starting weights.

im about 5'6 and 106lbs and the 22lbs is relatively easy to pull back

[bayhunter]

Originally posted by smoke1953:
With that lighter bow I'm not sure how much you may have developed and utilized your back muscles. If you learn to use those and gradually develop that large muscle group you are not going to have any problem at all. Some kind of rubberband exercise device that allows you to work that group will really help.

right now besides shotting my bow i also use a bowtrainer which has a bunch of different bands that are diffferent weights

[sbschindler]

I think the 40 lb will be OK

[wtpops]

What ever you go up to just make sure you are not over bowed, only you will be able to determen that.

There are a few trad shoots throught out Ca., maybe your parents can take you to a few and you can try out a few bows to see what is good for you. Most any body at these shoots would be happy to let you try a bow.

[lpcjon2]

If you can go to a shop and try a 40# bow and draw it back to anchor and hold it for a ten count without shaken or straining,then your in. It is imperative to be able to hold the weight comfortably or your accuracy will be lost and you will get very discouraged.

[jhg]

One reason its hard to do well is the higher weight will tend to collapse your form. Unless of course the new bow is easy for you to draw as well.

Once you know what good form feels like, it has become part of your shot, its easy to know when a bow is working YOU and not you working the bow. So if you jump up in weight like this, know what your form should look like and how it should feel before you do.

[bayhunter]

thank you everybody for the feedback!  

[Raging Water]

Bayhunter,

I think that 35# to 40# would be just fine. With everything, it takes practice. Your muscles will develop just dandy to handle the lbs. Use your back muscles. It is amazing what weight they can pull.

Find a 35# - 40# bow. Warm up with the 22# and then go to the heavier one.

You are welcome to come over and practice here in Texas, with me.

You'll be shooting 50# in no time!

Matt