The Loading Phase Parallels the Shooting Phase

Just as a forward punch integrates drawing, aiming, and release into one continuous motion, the loading phase of archery requires the same unified approach. Grasping the arrow, removing it from the quiver, nocking, and locking the string must all occur as a single, fluid movement.

Rhythmic Alternation of Both Arms

The loading phase employs alternating thrusts from both hands along the shooting line, similar to a boxing combination. The left bow arm thrust initiates the draw while the right arm thrust executes the loading action.

Three-Stage Loading Motion

The loading sequence comprises three distinct stages that build upon each other. This progression, amplified across three phases, generates efficient power transfer from the body to the arrow.

Stage One: Arm and Elbow Swing with Chest Drive

The first stage involves swinging the arm and elbow forward while the chest opens, creating initial momentum. This movement establishes the foundation for the subsequent loading action.

Stage Two: Forward Thrust with Forearm Supination

The second stage executes a forward thrust of the hand while simultaneously rotating the forearm into supination. The armpit locks and the triceps contracts to anchor the loading position.

Stage Three: Finger and Wrist Snap for Arrow Release

The final stage delivers a sharp snap of the fingers and wrist, rotating the hand upward to propel the arrow. The tongue pushes forward on the shaft while the middle three fingers pull backward, creating the release velocity.

Proper Arrow Nocking and String Lock Position

The arrow is held deeply between the tongue tip and the second phalanx of the index finger. The string lock is pressed horizontally against the base of the tongue with the middle finger tip maintaining proper contact.

T-Rex Arm Connection and Energy Flow

At the conclusion of the loading sequence, the arm and elbow connect naturally with the body, forming the T-Rex arm position. This integrated structure allows energy to flow continuously forward into the release phase.

Quiver Positioning for Efficient Arrow Access

The quiver should position arrows nearly parallel to the left side of the body with nocks facing forward, allowing efficient grasping from the hard point. This arrangement preserves the forward energy flow that improper quiver placement can disrupt.

ABOUT THE LOADING PHASE by Mihai Cozmei

COZ archery, clothing and horses

Standard Front Body Lock TD

2 min read·9 key moments·PT4M43S video

Key Takeaways

•The Loading Phase Parallels the Shooting Phase
•Rhythmic Alternation of Both Arms
•Three-Stage Loading Motion
•Stage One: Arm and Elbow Swing with Chest Drive

ABOUT THE LOADING PHASE In mounted archery, the nocking operation is supposed to bring the archer how fast possible in the "ready to shoot" position. If the "forward punch" include all the elements of the shooting phase (drawing, aiming, release), the same logic applies to the loading phase: Grasping the arrow, taking it of from the quiver, nocking and locking the string with the fingers of the drawing hand should be performed and formed just one motion. The loading must be perfectly balanced with the shooting sequence, each phase supporting and creating the other one. The last Living Arrow quiver was designed to make possible a very simple and efficient archery form. The main characteristics of it is the alternative and rhythmic thrusting forward with the both hands on the shooting line: The forward punch with the bow hand during the shooting phase, (already explained)... while the loading operation is shaped as a short forward uppercut to the chest like in the Mike Tyson "peek a boo" style of boxing. It is a whip like accelerated motion in three steps: First one is swinging in front on the horizontal line of the arm and elbow with a push from the chest opening to the target. Second is the thrusting toward in front of the right hand together with closing the armpit and turning the forearm in supination and contracting the triceps muscles. Third is the snatch of the fingers and of the wrist, turning the palm upwards. This uppercut thrust is completed with a very fast rotation of the arrow on the shooting line, with the thumb pushing on the shaft while the middle three fingers are pulling in opposite direction. The hand being turned upwards in supination, the inside part of the wrist come in contact with the string and the nocking is finalized with the fingers in proper position. The arrow is grasped deeply between the tip of the thumb and second phalanx of the index finger, while the nock is pressed horizontally against the base of the thumb with the tip of the middle finger. The flattening of the shaft at the base of the feathers is of a big help in order to have automatically the nock in the correct position. While the T-Rex arm is already completed at the end of the loading, the forward punch is following immediately, while the drawing fingers remains locked for Slavic (or Persian), draw. Obviously, the quiver should be attached to the left side of the upper body, with the arrows near horizontal and the nocks pointing in front in a ideal position for grasping, in front of the heart point. They should be very stable inside but also very easy to be taken of. The most of the other side quivers are attached oblique to the front of the body, with the tips more forward than the nocks. In this case the straight motion of the right hand is not anymore possible, and the continuity of the entire archery form is affected. Sometimes, small details makes big difference!

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about standard front body lock td?

This video covers the loading phase parallels the shooting phase, rhythmic alternation of both arms, three-stage loading motion. It provides detailed instruction from COZ archery, clothing and horses.

How long does it take to learn standard front body lock td?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.