Back Tension - I Think I Have It

[agtex42]

Well I don't get the chance to shoot very much these days so I've been incorporating some "string bow" practice in my down time to supplement my shooting sessions.  Back tension has always been somewhat elusive for me but I think I've finally figured it out.  I can't really video myself shooting but this string bow exercise demonstrates the same anchor, expansion and follow through that I'm experiencing with the actual bow.  It appears to me that I'm getting proper scapular rotation but I'd appreciate yall's input on the matter as well.  For what it's worth, my accuracy and consistency has dramatically improved since using this new method.  I'm able to hold for several seconds at full draw without feeling fatigued and I think I'm doing it "right" but it's always good to get another set of eyes for an evaluation!

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JAqda2RA6rI&feature=youtu.be

[moebow]

That motion of the scapula looks good!  You need to work on your bow shoulder a little.  See how high it is compared to your string shoulder??  Both shoulders should be at the (approximately) same level.  Also notice the slight "S" bend in  your spine.  IF you can, try to get that straight up and down.

The way your scapula moves is quite good. And You have gotten it pretty well down it appears.

Arne

[agtex42]

Thanks Arne, I was hoping you'd chime in!

I know exactly what you're talking about with the uneven shoulders but it's been sort of a "lesser of two evils" thing for me.  I have what some might call monkey arms, and I've found that shooting with my shoulders level causes my string arm elbow to be quite high (almost to the 10 o'clock position when viewed from the side).  I shot that way for quite some time and I had a pretty significant callous on the bottom of my ring finger to show for it.

I tried the "low shoulder" for about a week and found that my elbow was in a much better position behind the arrow, my release improved and the callous started to fall off due to lack of use.  I accepted the imbalance because of the results I was getting but would certainly be open to your suggestions as to how to get better into alignment.  

I think just getting the right muscles engaged has been a tremendous improvement from where I started but it's always good to fine tune what you can!