The Benefits of a Bow and Arrow
HOW ARCHERY KEEPS YOU HEALTHY
FOCUS Archers benefit physically by strengthening their muscles, but the mental focus required to succeed in this sport also provides a lot of
The word “fitness” brings to mind a number of images: jogging, cycling, lifting weights — the list goes on and on. However, people rarely think of archery as a means to fitness. This activity has been around for thousands of years; a bow used to be a key weapon in hunting and war. Today, archery is often practiced as a sport, conferring many health benefits most are unaware of. EXERCISE Archery is a low-impact activity everyone can enjoy, regardless of age, gender, or ability. As with any sport, to perform well, archers need to practice consistently. Regular practice means regular use of their upper bodies and exercise that helps maintain overall fitness. What’s more, archers also get exercise by walking to and from the targets and the designated shooting area. STRENGTH It takes significant strength to pull a bow at full draw. In one motion, archers engage the muscles in their arms, hands, core, back, and chest. The more the motion of drawing and firing is repeated, the stronger these areas of the body will become. There are also many relatively easy exercises archers can do outside of this sport to build strength and improve their shot, including side planks, dumbbell exercises, and yoga.
benefit both on and off the archery range. Keeping a steady and unwavering sight on the target while ignoring all distractions is key to making a perfect shot, and this focus can also help increase productivity at work and improve relationships. PATIENCE Patience is another key component to archery: If an archer rushes a shot, they’re more likely to miss their target. Knowing when to take a shot is just as important as knowing how. Patience is also important when training the body for archery. Archers must be willing to perform the same task over and over to refine their aim. It’s important to keep in mind that archery can be dangerous when not practiced correctly. Talk to a professional or get a lesson from an archery instructor to learn how to properly handle a bow.
How Pets Improve Our Health and Happiness FELINE FRIENDS OR CANINE COMRADES
As people grow older, they’re more likely to find themselves at home with less company. If your family members live far away or you have physical limitations that make it difficult to leave the house, you may be at an increased risk of experiencing loneliness. This is why adopting an animal can be so helpful. Pets offer comfort and love, and many encourage physical activity. Integrating a pet into your life as you grow older can be just what you need to lift your spirit and keep you healthy. THE BENEFITS OF PET OWNERSHIP A lack of purpose can take a significant toll on anyone, but the sense of duty pet owners realize when caring for their animals helps them avoid this pitfall. The daily tasks of feeding, playing with, and walking your animal can help provide structure and bring meaning to your life. They also give you something to look forward to each day. What’s better than waking up or coming home to a wagging tail or loud meow? This is how pets help improve their owners’ mental and physical health. Studies also show that those who care for pets experience less stress, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and more exercise than non-pet owners.
Humans have an innate need to be social, and without someone to talk to
regularly, our mental well-being can start to deteriorate. Pets may not be the best conversation partners, but they may increase your social activity. Walking a dog to a local park every day, for example, can provide an opportunity for you to interact with other people. If you live alone, this simple activity can increase your social circle and improve your mental health. FIND THE RIGHT PET Before taking advantage of the many benefits pets offer, it’s crucial to consider which pet is right for you. Doing research can help answer important questions about which animals might be a good fit for you and your lifestyle and which may not. Finding a perfect match may take some time, but once that connection is made, there is nothing that will bring more joy into both of your lives. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a list of questions that will help guide you to the perfect pet. Take a look at CDC.gov/healthypets .
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