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How to adjust your stance for optimal back tension?

April 9, 2026

Quick Answer

To adjust your stance for optimal back tension, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, keeping your knees slightly bent and weight evenly distributed between both feet. This stance will help you maintain balance and generate consistent back tension. Your dominant foot should be forward, with the toe of your bow hand foot pointing slightly towards the target.

Stance Width and Balance

When setting up for a shot, your stance width should be wide enough to allow for stability but not so wide that it compromises your ability to maintain balance. A good starting point is to stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, or about 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) between the heel of one foot and the heel of the other. Experiment with different stances to find what works best for you, but keep in mind that a wider stance will generally provide more stability.

Knee Bend and Weight Distribution

To generate back tension effectively, you want to maintain a slight knee bend. This will help you absorb the shock of the shot and maintain control over the bow. Aim for a knee bend of about 10-15 degrees, with your weight evenly distributed between both feet. This will allow you to generate consistent back tension without sacrificing stability.

Dominant Foot Position

When standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, your dominant foot should be forward, with the toe of your bow hand foot pointing slightly towards the target. This will help you maintain balance and generate power for the shot. Experiment with different foot positions to find what works best for you, but keep in mind that a slightly forward dominant foot will generally provide more stability and control.

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