# The Impact of Draw Weight on Archers' Posture and Injury Risk Through Motion Capture Analysis
## 1 Introduction
Additionally, one report found significant improvement in shooting performance through standardized observational assessments after applying elastic taping to the lower part of the trapezius to activate the muscle [24]. In one of the latest studies [25], archery's direct impact on humeral morphology was examined using EMG, along with kinematic data collected through an 11-camera motion capture system (Qualisys Track Manager) and processed using C-Motion's Visual 3D Software. This study is one of the few that implements motion capture and digital human modeling (DHM) in archery research. DHM enables the identification of an ergonomic shooting technique that is easily reproducible and can be used systematically. However, this study [25] did not directly measure muscle force or mechanical loading. Archery involves various bow types, each with different draw weights. Recurve bows, commonly used in Olympic archery and training, range from 15 to 50 lbs. Compound and crossbows, often used for hunting, typically range from 40 to 200 lbs. Longbows and bare bows, popular for recreational shooting, vary from 15 to 100 lbs. Success in archery depends on maintaining a stable, upright posture, coordinating upper and lower body movements, and ensuring consistent timing and accuracy [26]. However, the repetitive nature of shooting, coupled with the physical demands of drawing bows with varying draw weights, places significant stress on the musculoskeletal system. The shoulders,elbows, and lumbar spine are particularly vulnerable, as they endure forces and postural adaptations that can lead to strain or injury [5; 6; 10]. Gender differences in muscle strength, joint mobility, and movement strategies play a significant role in shaping biomechanical patterns in sports. For example, males typically possess greater muscle strength due to higher muscle mass, which enhances their force production capabilities [27]. In contrast, females often demonstrate superior joint mobility and flexibility, owing to anatomical differences and hormonal influences, which can increase ligament laxity [28]. These physiological distinctions affect movement strategies, with males generally relying on strength-based approaches, while females tend to emphasize joint mobility and endurance to achieve comparable outcomes. Moreover, gender differences in postural control and stabilization are apparent, with females often relying more on hip and trunk adjustments during dynamic movements [29]. These gender-specific patterns highlight the complex interaction between strength, technique, and body mechanics, all of which are essential for optimal performance. Bow draw weight and target distance significantly affect archery biomechanics. Higher draw weights require increased physical effort, activating the upper body muscles, especially the shoulders, back, and arms, to stabilize the bow and execute the shot [7]. This heightened demand can alter joint angles, such as increased shoulder abduction and trunk extension, as archers adjust their posture to accommodate the added force. Target distance also plays a crucial role in biomechanics, as shooting at greater distances necessitates more precise control and stability to counteract the effects of gravity and wind on the arrow's trajectory [30]. These adjustments often involve subtle modifications in trunk rotation and elbow alignment to maintain accuracy. However, few focus on kinematic methodologies as the primary mode of data collection or conduct a comprehensive full-body analysis of the biomechanics involved in each phase of executing archery shots. No study has yet provided data by computer-simulating the shooting process or by running motion data through ergonomic software for optimization. Additionally, many previous studies with a kinetic orientation relied on observational data, had to compensate for clicker reaction time, or only examined a single variable. The motions involved in an archery shot constitute a multi-component process that requires detailed analysis to fully evaluate all contributing factors [24].