Mastering Eye Focus

Mastering Eye Focus: A Deep Dive into Kisik Lee's Method from "Total Archery"

April 24, 2024

In archery, every aspect of form and technique contributes to the accuracy of a shot, but perhaps none is as crucial as eye focus. Renowned coach Kisik Lee, in his seminal work "Total Archery," explains the importance of eye focus and its profound impact on shot execution. Let's explore the key principles of Lee's method and how this can improve your shooting applying his approach.

Understanding Kisik Lee's Approach to Eye Focus:

Central to Kisik Lee's method is the concept of "visual aiming." While it may sound trivial, visual aiming emphasises the role of the eyes in directing the shot. According to Lee, the archer's gaze should be fixed on a specific point on the target, known as the "primary focus," and there are a few details to consider to do this most effectively.

The Three Levels of Eye Focus:

Applying Lee's approach, we can categorise eye focus into three distinct levels: primary, secondary, and tertiary.

Primary Focus:

The primary focus refers to the precise spot on the target where the archer's gaze is directed. This point serves as the anchor for the shot, guiding the alignment of the bow and arrow and facilitating a smooth release. Most importantly: primary focus happens throughout the shot cycle. This means that even before the bow will be raised primary focus starts. This helps the archer raise the bow correctly to get into proper alignment. Primary focus continues until after the arrow has hit the target. The archer does not focus on the flying arrow and keeps the target spot in focus until the end of the shot cycle! Strong primary focus also means that the head will be turned until the eyes are centrally aligned with the target spot, allowing them to work most efficiently.

Secondary Focus:

While maintaining the primary focus on the target, the archer simultaneously maintains awareness of the bow's alignment and the position of the arrow in the peripheral vision. This secondary focus ensures proper alignment throughout the shot cycle.

Tertiary Focus:

The tertiary focus involves awareness of external factors beyond your sense of vision, such as wind conditions, body alignment, and mental state. By maintaining a broad awareness of these factors while keeping the primary focus steady, the archer can make subtle adjustments to optimise shot execution.

Practical Application of Kisik Lee's Method:

Implementing Kisik Lee's approach to eye focus requires practice and patience. Begin by identifying a specific point on the target to serve as your primary focus. Experiment with different distances and target sizes to find the optimal focal point for your shooting style.

During practice sessions, consciously maintain your primary focus on the target throughout the entire shot process. Pay close attention to the alignment of your bow and arrow, ensuring that they remain in sync with your gaze.

As you become more comfortable with visual aiming, gradually incorporate secondary and tertiary focuses into your shot routine. Develop a sense of fluidity and rhythm between your primary and secondary focuses, allowing them to complement each other seamlessly.

How to practise:

Method 1: Incorporate eye focus exercises into your daily routine

During a quiet moment, choose a point within 5 to 10 meters to focus on. Concentrate on this point for 10 seconds before shifting your gaze. Repeat this process, selecting a new point each time. Aim for three to five repetitions per session. Reflect on your experience afterward. At first, maintaining focus might be difficult as your eyes tend to wander. However, with consistent practice, you'll see improvement. Initially, focusing for more than a few seconds might be challenging, but with regular practice, aim for 30 seconds as your goal.

Method 2: Use imaginary target points in 3D Archery

Shoot three arrows from 20 meters at a 3D animal target, aiming for the kill. After shooting, note the grouping or spread of the arrows and remove them. Mark the center of the kill with a well-visible sticker or so and repeat the exercise. You'll notice tighter grouping, closer to the target point than the initial attempt. This is because focusing on a clear target point improves accuracy.

To implement this method effectively in tournaments or on 3D courses, visualise an "imaginary target point" on the 3D animal where you expect the kill to be. By focusing on this point, you'll significantly enhance your accuracy.