Unlocking the Power of the Holding Position in Archery
🏹 Unlocking the Power of the Holding Position in Archery
Mastering archery is about more than strength — it’s about how you hold yourself . The holding position , taught by Coach Yale of the Atlanta Archery Club , is a subtle but powerful phase that can transform your shots and elevate your entire archery practice.
🎯 What Is the Holding Position?
The holding position comes right after anchoring your shot. After you’ve drawn your bow and found your anchor point , the next step is to engage your back muscles and align your bones — your bow wrist, bow shoulder, and draw shoulder should form a straight line.
Though it may not be a dramatic movement, this subtle adjustment makes a world of difference. When you enter the holding position correctly, you:
Engage Back Muscles
Use your back muscles, not just arms
Align Bones
Form a straight line from shoulder to wrist
Reduce Strain
Reduce tension and promote calmer focus
Feel Stability
Achieve the sensation of being "inside the bow"
💡 Why the Holding Position Matters
Many archers—especially beginners— rush from anchoring straight to releasing the arrow. But the holding position allows you to brace yourself , focus your energy , and aim with true intention .
Coach Yale compares it to “ opening the heart .” It’s not just physical alignment—it’s emotional grounding that changes your relationship with the bow and the shot.
By slowing down and embracing the stillness in the hold, you tap into deeper mental focus and body control .
🛠️ How to Check Your Holding Position: 3 Practical Drills
1. The Squeeze Drill
Have someone gently try to move your arms. If they can, you’re not holding properly. If you feel stable and “braced,” you’re doing it right.
2. Shot Trainer
Use a shot trainer tool to safely release a drawn bow and observe your form during the hold.
3. Heart Rate Monitor
Notice if your heart rate lowers when you enter the holding position. A proper hold engages structure rather than just muscles.
🏹 Take Your Archery to the Next Level
If your shots feel rushed or unstable, embracing the holding position could be your breakthrough. This subtle shift gives you the time, strength, and stillness to aim more precisely—and shoot with confidence.
📌 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the holding position in archery?
The holding position is the phase after anchoring where you engage your back muscles, align your bones, and create stability before releasing the arrow.
Why is the holding position important?
It helps reduce muscle strain, lower heart rate, and improve your focus for a more precise shot.
How can I check if I’m in the correct holding position?
Try the squeeze drill, use a shot trainer, or monitor your heart rate for signs of stability.
How long should I hold the holding position?
Hold it long enough to feel stable and focused—without rushing—to maintain control and accuracy.
Watch Coach Yale’s Full Lesson on the Holding Position
Don’t just read about it — see it in action! Coach Yale walks you through the holding position step-by-step in this empowering training session.
Meet Yale, Nogin
Head Coach NTS Level 4
Yale Nogin, Head Coach and founder of Atlanta Archery Club, has 35+ years of archery experience and 8 years of teaching. A USA Archery NTS Level 4 Coach, he blends archery with chiropractic and yoga, inspiring all ages to develop lifelong skills.
