Frequently Asked Questions
Below are listed some of the most frequently asked questions
Q: What equipment do I need?
Absolutely none! This is always the first question that newcomers ask, and the answer is always the same. The club can provide all of the initial requirements for the beginner and it is important that you do not invest in any equipment until you have established your technique and strength. As you become more proficient then you can buy the right equipment to meet your needs, based on your height, strength, draw length and many other more subtleties .Second hand equipment is nearly always available through the club, at a fraction of the cost of buying new and can usually be tried before making any commitment.
What clothing should I wear?
At the club you should wear something fairly close fitting that will not interfere with the bow string, flapping sleeves are a particular nuisance. Shoes should be sensible and closed (definitely no open toed sandals!)...trainers are ideal. In competitions a colour code exists – this is either dark green or white shirt and trousers/skirt or a combination of the two.
Who can become a member?
Just about anyone .Archery is a medium strength, high skill sport which can be enjoyed by a wide spectrum of people.It is often used in physiotherapy programs to help people recover or improve their upper body strength and limb co-ordination after especially in the case of accident victims who find themselves wheel chair bound. There are virtually no age limits, although, in the interest of safety and other members, the very young should be accompanied by a responsible adult who we now ask to be a member also.
How safe is archery?
Archery is a very safe sport indeed, provided that it is practiced in a club environment, adhering to all of the common sense rules.
Serious accident is practically unheard of, and the most common injuries occur when people encounter the blunt end of the arrow. This can happen either by tripping on an arrow that is sticking in the field, or walking into the end of an arrow that is sticking in the target boss, or standing too close to the boss when arrows are being pulled out!