Archery Competition Preparation: Outdoor & Indoor
Stepping onto the shooting line at a competition—whether under the open sky or in a sports hall—brings its own blend of excitement, nerves, and focus. Being prepared can turn that nervous energy into confident performance. This guide covers what to expect, what to bring, and the etiquette that keeps competitions running smoothly.
1. What to Expect on Competition Day
Outdoor Competitions
Outdoor target archery brings nature into the equation. You’ll face:
Variable Weather: Sun, wind, rain—sometimes all in one day.
Light Changes: Morning glare, midday brightness, and evening shadows.
Longer Distances: Depending on your category, up to 70m or more.
Open Environment: Large fields, less noise control, and more walking between shooting and resting areas.
Time Commitment: Outdoor events often last longer, with multiple rounds.
Indoor Competitions
Indoor events remove weather from the equation, but bring their own feel:
Controlled Conditions: Stable lighting, temperature, and footing.
Shorter Distances: Usually 18m or 25m, but scoring rings are smaller—precision matters.
Limited Space: Shooting halls can feel tighter, with archers side-by-side.
Quicker Pace: Shorter breaks and more rapid shooting cycles.
2. What to Bring
For Both Indoor & Outdoor Competitions
Bow & Arrows: Tuned and inspected before you arrive.
Spare Equipment: Extra arrows, strings, release aids, and nocks.
Toolkit: Allen keys, bow square, string wax, and fletching glue.
Personal Essentials: Water bottle, snacks, towel, and small first aid kit.
Score Equipment: Pens or a fully charged scoring app.
Warm-Up Band: For stretching before shooting.
Shooting Diary: For notes on performance and adjustments.
Outdoor-Specific Gear
Clothing for All Weather: Layers, waterproof jacket, hat, sunscreen.
Sunglasses & Visor: To reduce glare without affecting aim.
Waterproof Bow Cover or Case: Protects gear during rain.
Chair & Shelter: Folding chair, umbrella, or small pop-up tent.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes for grass, mud, or uneven ground. (No Sandals, or flip-flops)
Indoor-Specific Gear
Light, Breathable Clothing: Venues can get warm with many people inside.
Non-Marking Shoes: Some halls require these to protect flooring.
Small Gear Bag: Keep equipment tidy in limited space.
Spare Layers: For warming up before shooting or if the hall is cooler.
3. Competition Etiquette
Arrive Early: Gives you time to set up, warm up, and get familiar with the venue.
Follow the Signals: Listen for the whistle or light system for shooting and collecting arrows.
Respect the Shooting Line: Step up only when called, step back when done.
Keep Quiet: Avoid talking or moving in a way that distracts others while they shoot.
Arrow Retrieval: Walk carefully, be aware of others, and avoid pulling arrows while someone else is still scoring.
Stay Positive: Encourage fellow archers and show good sportsmanship regardless of your own score.
Help Out: Offer to assist with target changes or scoring if needed.
Tidy Your Area: Keep bags, cases, and chairs out of walkways.
4. Pro Tips for a Smooth Day
Test Everything Beforehand: Use a practice session to make sure your gear is competition-ready.
Check the Rules: Every competition may follow slightly different regulations (Usually World Archery or local rules).
Plan for Comfort: Small things like lip balm, hand warmers (for outdoor winter shoots), or a cooling towel (for hot days) can make a big difference.
Mental Prep: Visualise your shot process, not just your score.
Nutrition: Eat a good breakfast and keep light snacks handy to avoid dips in energy.
Final Word
Archery competitions
Indoor or outdoor—are as much about preparation and mindset as they are about skill. Arrive organised, respect the rules and your fellow competitors, and you’ll find the experience both rewarding and enjoyable. The more you prepare, the more you can focus on the real reason you’re there: the simple satisfaction of sending an arrow perfectly downrange.