Each year the USAA Indoor Nationals effectively completes my indoor season. Yes, of course it’s not quite time to gear up for outdoor season and our indoor league continues. One of these years I’ll go to Louisville for the NFAA Nationals, but with Vegas, State Championships and USAA Nationals so compressed, I’ve not made time for it. In fact, my family and I need the break.

In this part of the country, our indoor season starts in October and effectively lasts until April. By the time March rolls in, I’ve had to try to peak for the entire month of February and into early March. That takes quite a bit out of me and I am ready for a mental break. That break is healthy and keeps archery exciting and fresh.

While I will shoot during the break between the winding down of indoor season and the beginning of outdoor season, I am making preparations for outdoor season. I am considering which equipment to shoot and what changes need to be made, if any, to my form, mental game and equipment.

It is also a time to reflect on the indoor season. What went well? What needed work? What in my game needs to change for the next indoor campaign? Can I take the lessons learned from indoor competition and apply them to the upcoming outdoor season?

During this time I may pick up my compound and my barebow rigs and have fun with friends. It is a time of rejuvenation, reflection and rest. By the time outdoor season rolls in I hope to be champing at the bit.

Trying to push hard all year is a mistake for me. We all need periodic respites from what we love to do. This is my designated time for an archery break. In fact, it is part of my regular training cycle.