"opening" the bow

[swampthing]

When you "initiate" "start" or "begin" to draw the bow, do you use a shoulder rotation to draw the bow? or do you use your elbow and draw the bow open by pulling with the arm?

[moebow]

You should use the shoulder to make the elbow rotate around the spine.  Once the elbow has rotated into alignment with the arrow you transfer the weight of the bow to your back (rhomboids) before release.

[swampthing]

I take it you mean "ALL" the rearward drawing of the bow is done with the shoulder and upperback with only very minimal "pulling" with the arm itself? I just discovered the motion myself and I think it feels pretty solid. Just trying to keep injuries down.

[moebow]

Yes, all of the draw!  Your arm muscles should be as relaxed as possible.  It takes practice to get this but the more relaxed your bow arm and string arm is the better.

[swampthing]

Yeah? I notice my draw length increased a bit too. Putting a yard stick on my chest I "easily" reach 26-27" , But "Full" draw this way puts me at 30", I'm 5'10.5"  I enjoy the extra horsepower as well as the next guy but do not want to be in an over draw position. Bow shoulder should it be "down in the pocket" or extended out with a push?

[moebow]

Many traditional shooters, when they change to this style of drawing will increase their draw length however I'd say that 3 to 4 inches is a little excessive.  I'm 6'2" and draw just under 30".  It will take some time to get this "grooved in" Most coaches will say that the average time for folks is 20 practice sessions.

Bow shoulder should be down and back which puts it "in the pocket" and then during the shot, it is pushed or better said extended toward the target.

[jim phenes]

i have just realized the great difference it makes when you use the shoulders and back instead of horsing the bow back with your arm. i have become a much better form shooter because of the better rotation.