by Joe Winfield

NewsJanuary 26, 20220 comments

A Guide to Adaptive Archery for People with Disabilities

Archery is a brilliantly accessible activity that offers everyone the chance to have a go and hone their skills, no matter their age or ability!

Here at Calvert Exmoor, archery is just one of the fantastic inclusive adventure activities that we offer on our accessible holidays in Devon. The sport is very flexible and can be tailored to any individual according to their needs and preferences.
 
 
 

What is Adaptive Archery

The world of outdoor adventure can sometimes feel like an exclusive one, with people with disabilities often facing barriers that make taking part in exciting, adrenaline activities more challenging.

This should not be the case, as there are countless ways to ensure activities like these are accessible and enjoyable for all – something that is at the heart of what we do.

Archery is an activity that, upon first impressions, can seem daunting to get into. However, it lends itself incredibly well to being adapted and tailored to suit different needs.

Adaptive archery is the same as any other kind of archery in that the participant will use a bow to shoot arrows at some kind of target – it is simply adapted in line with the needs of the individual, whether this means using adaptive equipment or providing different kinds of support.

Wheelchair Archery

Wheelchair users can easily take part in archery with minimal to extensive adaption needed, depending on their mobility levels and level of comfort.

Here at Calvert Exmoor, our archery range is easily accessible for wheelchair users, just like the other fantastic range of activities on offer at the centre.

Adaptive Archery Equipment

Part of ensuring everyone can have a go at archery is providing access to adaptive equipment. This might include things like:

• Lightweight bows
• Mechanical/trigger releases
• Mouth tabs
• Slings
• Scopes & visibility aids
• Grip supports

Depending on ability and skill level, the size and nature of the targets can also be adapted.

For competitive archers, equipment will often be custom, but for those just wanting to have a go, there are plenty of methods and different kinds of equipment to try out when visiting an inclusive archery centre.

Archery at Calvert Exmoor

When you visit us at Calvert Exmoor, you’ll have the chance to participate in our accessible archery activities. With support from a dedicated instructor and a range of adaptive equipment, you can rest assured that you’re in safe hands and can focus on having fun and becoming the next Legolas, Katniss or Hawkeye!
 
 
 

The Benefits of Archery

Participating in archery activities offers a range of benefits – first and foremost, it’s great fun and thoroughly enjoyable, even if you have no previous experience in the activity! Like other outdoor activities, it can also help boost physical, emotional and social wellbeing.

Building Confidence

You’ll be surprised by how easy it is to boost self-esteem after having a go at archery. Even if you’re not hitting a bulls’ eye every time, lining up the shot and letting the arrows fly is a satisfying experience – and you get a real sense of achievement when the arrows find their mark!
 

Socialising

Because everyone can try archery, there are plenty of opportunities to socialise and bond with other archers. When doing the activity as a group, you can start up friendly competitions to push each other to develop new skills and encourage a supportive environment.
 

Developing Hand-Eye Coordination

Archery is based on precision, so developing hand-eye coordination skills comes with the territory. Even with just a small amount of practice, your coordination will improve, along with the development of fine motor skills.
 

Improving Focus

Similarly to improving physical coordination, archery can also help you to improve your focus by teaching you how to tap into an inner calm or sense of stillness, and block out any distractions.

To find out more about the other exciting experiences we offer, you can read about our favourite residential activities to start getting a feel for what we’re all about.

If you or someone you know would love a trip to Calvert Exmoor, get in touch with our wonderful team to find out more! Our inclusive activity holidays are designed to ensure people of all abilities, along with their families, can enjoy adventures in the great outdoors.