  Optimal postural stability is required to perform in archery. Since the
dynamic consequences of the string release may disturb the archer's postural
equilibrium, they should have integrated them in their motor program to
optimize postural stability. This study aimed to characterize the postural
strategy archers use to limit the potentially detrimental impact of the bow
release on their postural stability and identify characteristics that may
explain a better performance. Six elite and seven sub-elite archers performed a
series of 18 shots at 70 meters, standing on two force plates. Postural
stability indicators were computed during the aiming and the shooting phase
using the trajectory of the center of pressure. Two postural strategies were
defined, as whether they were triggered before (early) or after (late) the
string release time. Both groups used anticipated postural adjustments, but
elite archers triggered them before the string release more often and sooner.
Scores differed between the two groups, but no differences were found between
early and late shots. Trained archers seem to have finely integrated the
dynamic consequences of their bow motion, triggering anticipated postural
adjustments prior to the string release. However, it remains unclear whether
this anticipation can positively influence the performance outcome.
