8
by CDFingers
Yeah, there's always a tendency to want to whomp on a new bow and shoot it and shoot it. Depending on how old you are, this could be dangerous. I'd advise to go slowly. Since you shot 60 arrows from one side, you're going to be tense on the third day, and you may get a head ache or feel other pain. I'd advise not to shoot for five days. Do some stretches by putting your forearm on top of your head and with the other hand, gently pull your elbow toward your ear. Do the same thing with your arm out in front of you. Don't over stretch. You're just gently pulling the muscles.
Then, on the sixth day, depending on your age (meaning the ability of your body to repair muscles quickly or not) I'd advise to shoot maybe 20, then rest two days, then do it again. Do that for a couple weeks and gauge how your body reacts.
Personally, I find if I shoot from only one side, that is if I exercise only muscles governing the stress from just one side, I end up with pain. Since this is your first bow (there's always another...), I'd advise to pull and slowly release the tension from the bow on the other side. Don't "dry fire" it, it'll break. Just draw it and slowly relax the tension. This will allow even development of your muscles, you'll have better posture, you'll be stronger, and you'll avoid pain and injury.
There are several threads down below where various members discuss this sort of thing.
Archery is a long term sport. Sure, it's a kick to whomp on the bow from time to time, but the human body just can't handle that sort of abuse. My advice--I'm an old fart and I've shot many, many arrows--is to go slowly so you can enjoy this delicious sport for many years to come.
30 pounds is a very good starting weight, I tell ya whut. And recurves rock! Good choice. You may want to increase that in a year--I'm not kidding when I say "a year." It's a long term sport.
Post pics of your bow, eh?
CDFingers
Crazy cat peekin' through a lace bandana
like a one-eyed Cheshire, like a diamond-eyed Jack