Archery is one of the oldest sports in the world. Over generations, archers have tested their skills in competition. But despite this long history, some still question why this pursuit should be considered a sport.
So, what are some indisputable reasons archery is a sport?
There are dozens of reasons why archery is a sport. First, it requires a lot of skill to hit the target. It challenges each archer physically and mentally. Also, archery can bring the same social benefits associated with many other types of sports.
As we’ve seen, there are dozens of reasons why archery should be considered a sport. Let’s take a closer look at some of them.
In this post, we'll cover:
Hitting The Target Takes Skill
One of the biggest reasons archery should be considered a sport is the degree of skill involved. Archers need to be willing to spend hours at the range and hone their skills to compete.
When thinking of sports, it’s reasonable to focus on the dedication the athletes need to show. In this aspect, archery is very similar to every other game. To gain their skills, the archers will need to invest countless hours at the range, perfecting their technique.
The amount of time that professional archers spend training each day can vary. However, it’s estimated that some might spend around six hours practicing each day
.
They also need to stay physically fit, which includes spending hours on upper body strength and cardio. In this area, the level of physical effort required to become a professional archer is on par with many other high-profile sports worldwide.
Another critical aspect that archery requires is good eyesight. One factor that makes this aspect of the sport, so complex is that it expects to move between focusing on long distances, looking at near objects, and back again. For example, archers will need to look at the target, check their arrow positioning, then look back to the target.
Though it appears deceptively simple, being able to adjust between these distances can often be challenging. Usually, this skill can take several years to hone.
Finally, you’ll often need to perform complex calculations to become a successful archer. For example, the archers need to consider the best angle to aim their arrow. Depending on the weather conditions, they might even need to factor in effect that of the wind.
Archery Requires Strong Mental Health
Like many other sports, archery requires robust mental health. To succeed, archers will need to learn to focus on targets. They’ll also need to demonstrate a lot of discipline, especially when training.
For archers to be successful, they will need to have robust mental health. One of the most important aspects they need to focus on is improving their focus. To hit the target, they will need to have the ability to block out any potential distractions.
This can be a tough skill for many people, especially at a competition. If the archers aren’t able to block out the cheering crowds or succumb to the pressure of being watched, they won’t be ready to hit the target.
They will also need to be highly dedicated to the sport. The archers will often need the discipline to stick to their training routine. Archery is a solo sport, so they won’t be able to rely on their teammates for motivation.
To be able to invest the time and energy required to learn these skills, archers will need to have a lot of patience. For example, they’ll need to spend many hours working on perfecting every aspect of their shooting technique.
Archery Can Improve Your Health
One of the biggest reasons people play sports is to improve their health. Archery can strengthen your upper body, cardiovascular system, and core strength. Because of this, it’s estimated that archery is one of the most physically demanding Olympic sports.
To be a successful archer, you will need to be physically fit. Several parts of your body will get tested during a typical archery competition.
First, archers need to develop a strong upper body. Repeatedly pulling the string back will require a lot of physical strength. Without this draw strength, the arrow won’t be able to stick to the target.
Archers will also need to spend a lot of time working on their cardio. When competing, archers need to have the stamina to continue to load and fire the bow. If they become exhausted, their aim can suffer.
To be successful, archers will need to have a lot of core strength. This will allow them to grip the bow and pull the string effectively. Without this, they will struggle to maintain their form throughout the competition.
Because of this, many professional archers will have a vigorous exercise routine, allowing them to build the strength they need to compete.
Due to the physical strain placed on the body during the competition, it’s estimated that the average male burns around 1,084 calories during the Olympic competition. This is more than other sports, like the 100-meter sprint and dancing.
Archery Has Organized Competitions
One of the biggest characteristics of any sport is competition. In this case, archery has organized competitions. This allows archers to be ranked according to how successful they are.
For many people, the essence of sport is competition. Like countless other sports around the world, archery is highly competitive.
Many types of archery competitions are available, depending on your skills. For example, you can compete on a local, state, national, or international level. This can include going to the Olympics.
Often, you’ll need to qualify for more significant events by performing well in the local and state competitions.
What Types Of Archery Competition Are There?
There are generally three different types of archery competition. First, you have Target Archery. This is where the targets are set at a distance from the archers, who each shoot at the target. Then, you have field archery.
This is similar to Target Archery, except there are many different distances between each target. Finally, you have 3D archery, where you need to fire at targets shaped like animal cut-outs.
While these are some of the most popular options, other types of competitions exist. For example, you might want to try mounted archery, where you shoot while riding a horse. There are also team events, where each archer uses a different type of bow.
Each competition has different requirements. For example, indoor archery tends to have 20 rounds, with archers firing three arrows per round. On the other hand, field archery allows the archer to fire four arrows at each of the 14 targets.
In 3D archery, you’re scored according to whether your shot would be able to kill the animal.
It should also be noted that these rules can sometimes change between countries and competitions. Because of this, you should always check the rules before you compete.
Like many other sports, judges closely watch all the action, ensuring that everyone is following the rules. If you break the rules, you might face disqualification.
Archers might also be limited in the type of bow that they can use. In most cases, you’ll need to use a recurve bow.
Archery Can Form Social Bonds
While many people focus on the physical and competitive aspects of the sport, it can also play a significant role in our social lives. There are dozens of archery clubs across the country, which people can use to meet other enthusiasts.
In most local areas, you’ll be able to find and join an archery club. For many people, this provides a valuable chance to make new friends. Because of this, these clubs can often form a vibrant community.
These clubs also frequently host competitions, allowing archers to test their skills. This can be one of the best ways for you to improve.
These clubs are growing in popularity. It’s estimated that, in 2017, there were around 7.77 million archers in the United States alone. It should be noted that this figure is likely an underestimate, not taking into account those who aren’t part of a club or use a bow for hunting.
Archery Has A Practical Purpose
Archery can be a handy skill to learn. Historically, archers were used during the war. Modern archers can use a bow and arrow to hunt, providing food for their families.
Since the bow and arrow were invented, people have been finding uses for them. For example, during the war, archers were considered an invaluable part of the army. These skilled shooters were able to deliver a ranged attack on their enemies.
People also use archery for hunting their food. In skilled hands, a bow and arrow are the only tools needed to find and catch your food, living off the land. Because of this, bow hunting has become a popular pastime around the globe.
Archery has recently earned its place in modern culture, appearing in countless films and television shows. This is one of the biggest reasons why this sport continues to attract new people.
When Can You Practice Archery?
People can practice archery in all types of climatic conditions. Because of this, the sport has been able to amass a large following, with archery available in all countries around the world.
One of the reasons why archery is so popular is because it can be performed in almost any location. As long as you have the right equipment and enough space, you’ll start training to become an archer. As archery isn’t a seasonal sport, you’ll be able to have a year-round competition season.
However, other factors might limit your ability to engage in the sport depending on the type of archery you’re interested in.
For example, if you’re a hunter, you might only be able to get permits in some seasons. In other cases, clubs might say it’s too cold to compete during winter.
Archery Is An Inclusive Sport
Unlike some other sports, archery can be enjoyed by almost anyone. People of all ages will be able to test their skills in the archery range. There are also dozens of variations to cater to those with disabilities.
Another reason why archery should be considered a sport is because of how accessible it is. There are dozens of ways that you can participate.
There are smaller bows and lighter arrows for many children, which they can easily fire. As their strength improves, they can move on to more powerful equipment. Bows can also be customized to suit the needs of the elderly.
The sport can also be tailored to suit those with a disability. For example, the bows can be placed onto a stand to suit those in a wheelchair. In other cases, people with vision issues might be able to take part. Because of this, people with disabilities have been able to compete in archery at the Paralympics.
These factors make archery one of the most inclusive sports in the world. As a result, it’s something that the whole family can participate in together.
Archery Has A Long History
Archery is one of the oldest sports in the world, being practiced for hundreds of years. Over time, the sport has had to evolve, incorporating modern technology.
As we mentioned, archery has ancient origins, with the creation of the bow dating back to 20,000 BC. Since it was first made, archery has been a test of skill, requiring a particular set of skills to operate the bow effectively. This makes it one of the oldest sports in the world.
Because of its long history, archery has earned its place in the sporting world, continuing to evolve and remain relevant through time. Today, there are many different branches of archery.
Archery Is Included In The Olympics
In 1908, archery was first included in the Olympics. However, it wasn’t until 1978 that modern archery became an Olympic sport. Since then, it’s been a fixture at the Olympics and the Paralympics.
The Olympics is regarded as the most elite sporting organization in the world. For much of its recent history, archery has been a part of the games. Over that time, 21 nations have competed, with South Korea winning the most medals.
What Are Some Of The Rule When Competing at the Olympics?
The Olympic rules dictate that the archers must stand at least 70 meters from the target. They also need to attain a minimum score to qualify. Men need to get at least 740, and women need at least 704.
A few rules need to be followed when competing at the Olympics. As we mentioned, there is a minimum qualifying score. However, most countries will have their own qualifying rules to determine who they send to the Olympics.
Also, many athletes must meet an age limit before competing. You must be at least 16 years old to qualify for the Olympics. Younger athletes might be able to compete in the Youth Olympics. There is no upper age limit.
There are limits on the type of bow you’ll be able to use. At the Olympics, archers need to use a recurve bow. This is a fairly common requirement for most local contests.
Related Questions
Is it hard to learn archery?
Archery is a straightforward sport to learn. In most cases, you’ll be able to pick up the basics in a few minutes. However, it will take a lot of practice for you to master it.
Is archery a dangerous sport?
Though arrows have the potential to cause serious injury, the sport is highly regulated. At most clubs and competitions, strict safety measures are in place to protect archers.
How many types of bows are available?
There are many different options available on the market. However, they can often be broken down into four different types.
First, you have the recurve bow; this is the most common and is typically used for competitions. Next, you have compound bows, which use pulleys to make them easier.
Third, you have the longbow, the oldest variety and typically made from wood. The third type is the crossbow, where the arrow is positioned vertically, and the archer has a trigger mechanism to fire it.
Final Thoughts
There are dozens of reasons why archery should be considered a sport. As we’ve seen, it presents a physical challenge, testing draw strength, core strength, cardio, and eyesight. It also offers a mental challenge, requiring the discipline to train every day, often working alone.
Archery can present the same social benefits as many other sports, allowing you to connect with a dedicated global community. Because of these challenges, archery has earned its place in the Olympics and Paralympics.
References
- https://archeryboss.com/guides-info/olympics-age-limit
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Archery_at_the_Summer_Olympics#1900%E2%80%931920
- https://www.olympics.com.au/sports/archery/#:~:text=Archery%20first%20appeared%20in%20the,contested%20at%20the%20Olympic%20Games.
- https://worldarchery.org/History-Archery#:~:text=Although%20archery%20probably%20dates%20back,Shang%20Dynasty%20%E2%80%93%201766%2D1027BC.
- https://www.statista.com/statistics/191751/participants-in-archery-in-the-us-since-2006/
- https://worldarchery.org/rulebook/article/988?book_title=Chapter%2015%20-%20Consequences%20of%20Breaking%20Rules
- https://worldarchery.org/news/147916/8-health-benefits-archery