Have any of you used any of the archery specific exersizers to maintain your strength over the winter such as "Bow Trainer" or "archery fit"? And if so, which one? Two of us old geasers are struggling to keep up with our moose weight bows. Thanks,  Bob

Get real close to Your target and shoot your bow the other way... switch hands and shoot... what this does is work your other muscles in you arms, back, hands, body. Since I started doing that I find I can hold the longer and don't shake as much when working on back muscles at full draw.

Since you have looked at the "Archery Fit" book, I have found that every other day a couple of reps of around 15 of the illustrated "power waves" (modified, increased difficulty push-ups) and "pull-ups" on an inexpensive pull-up bar as well are plenty. Not sure about "geaser age" but I'm deep into my 64th year and I can shoot my 57 lb. Toelke Super D four times through a 30 target 3d course, a total of 150 shots or so with no fatigue at all.

p90x

I really think you cannot replace shooting lots of arrows to be ready to shoot heavy bows. One thing I would add is specific exercises for the rotator cuff muscles. These need to be isolated when exercising them to insure that these muscles strengthen along with the back, shoulder and arm muscles. Perhaps one of our PT members could refer us to a site with instructions.

second the p90x, good stuff and you can work at your own pace with minimal equipment

 

I use Kettle Bells, they will put in the best shape of your life or keep you up to snuff. I also have an old Bull Worker I use, it works very well.

Ken