It's a stance-off...

[easy]

I've been trying for quite some time to adopt an open stance, but i'm failing to see the benefit of it over a closed stance.
Most the top archers have a clearly open stance, usually with feet at about 30 degree angle to one another, hips angled open slightly between the feet, then upper body and shoulders aligned with the target at full draw. This causes a twist in the waist and gives more stability i believe.
The main thing i struggle with is to keep my hips open and get the twist consistant. More often than not my hips end up twisting with my upper body and my legs then twist also.
I don't have any issues with hitting my arm when shooting closed, and i find it much more consistent and more relaxed. But, is it worth continuing with practicing an open stance to gain better stability eventually, or should i stick to what feels best?

[Murray]

Originally Posted by easy

I don't have any issues with hitting my arm when shooting closed, and i find it much more consistent and more relaxed. But, is it worth continuing with practicing an open stance to gain better stability eventually, or should i stick to what feels best?

Stick to what feels best, IMO, especially if there are no other stance-related issues currently.

[clickerati]

I rather like the hand-on-hip stance.

[worthipa]

Originally Posted by clickerati

I rather like the hand-on-hip stance.

AKA "The Teapot" stance when adopted by gentlemen ....

[Desert Archer]

I have a serious low back injury (4 herniated discs) so the twist from open position is painful. To get proper alignment I have to shoot with a stance that is closed about as much as many students of BEST shoot open. I don't think there is anything wrong with a closed stance, particularly if it is more comfortable than open. Alignment and no undue tension are always to be strived for, at least as I understand this business. (smiley face goes here)

Dave

[Des]

easy,

I found the same thing with trying to get my stance consistent, my hips would twist with my shoulders. However i tried to stick at it because I do find that when i get it right i can feel greater back tension with an open stance.

I have kind of found a compromise for now which is a slightly open stance.

[easy]

nicely illustrated Des!

I think i know what you mean about back tension also. Perhaps having the twist in the waist means it's easier to engage the scapular, is that a known theory?

[Paper_Arrow]

When i started i had a lot of trouble with the string hitting the inside of my elbow. One of the old boys at the club suggested i open my stance and have not had any problem with it since.

[Old Bloke]

With an open stance the whole body is much more stable when shoooting in a wind. You create a triangular effect with the centre of gravity within the triangle as can be ssen from the illustrations. Stand in line *closed* and you get buffeted by the wind and can cause you to worry about being blown over instead of concentrating on the shot. IMHO.

[Bald Eagle]

Mr Suk would agree with you O.B. and so do I, but you always assess the individual before making any suggestions on stance