Is my string hand elbow too high? (vid)

[longbow fanatic 1]

I've tried to lower my string hand elbow, but it seems to naturally settle there. Should I try to use my side muscles to lower the elbow or is the hight of the elbow okay?

[moebow]

Maybe a LITTLE but well within acceptable range.  Look a the line of your string forearm and how it points to your bow hand.  See how that line points a little below the bow hand?  Ideally it points right at the pressure point in the bow hand.

Again, certainly acceptable and if that is where you end up, don't force a change. Overall, a good looking shot.

Arne

[longbow fanatic 1]

Thanks, Arne. I appreciate your insights, sir!

[longbow fanatic 1]

BTW: I sure do see your point about how my string hand  forearm line points below my bow hand. I really wish I could figure out how to get that string hand elbow flatter.

[moebow]

You might try thinking, "once I'm at set up (lifted the bow to draw) I need to bring my string arm elbow around the spine."  Open your bow in a flatter circular motion (rotational).  Again, I wouldn't stress over it!

Arne

[moebow]

I'll add this.  You are in good position at the start of the draw, then as you draw, you are using the top of your back and neck muscles to draw.  Then as you get to full draw, you let that string hand move VERY slightly forward to reach you facial references.  All that contributes to the elbow raising up.

So, you are getting a slight lift of the string arm during the draw.  Think draw in a downward movement to a point just BELOW your anchor, then a little lift to anchor at full draw.  It's a very small distinction but trying to use a higher to lower draw will place tension lower in your back and will leave the elbow lower.

See if that helps.

Arne

[longbow fanatic 1]

Great advice, Arne! Thank you and Happy New Year!