Modern-Day Archery in Kazakhstan: Nurturing Minds and Preserving Tradition
Aiming directly at the goal, no obstacles in sight.
The art of archery in Kazakhstan continues to thrive, playing a vital role in nurturing the minds of modern-day children while preserving ancient traditions. Here's a closer look at the impact of archery on children's behaviour, the participation of women in archery, and the various disciplines involved:
Benefits for Children
- Improved Calmness: Archery training helps children develop a sense of calmness and focus. The precision required in drawing the bowstring and releasing the arrow encourages a mindful approach, reducing stress and anxiety[1].
- Positive Behaviour and Academic Performance: Archery training has been shown to have a positive impact on children's behaviour and academic performance. The discipline and persistence needed to master the art of archery can translate into improved focus and dedication in other areas of life[1].
Women in Archery
- Past Contributions: In the past, women in Kazakhstan were active participants in battles, excelling particularly in archery. This role allowed them to contribute significantly to the defence of their communities[2].
- Modern-Day Involvement: Today, women continue to participate in archery, demonstrating the enduring appeal of this ancient art. For instance, Coach Ardaq Smaqulov from Beskaragay District, Abai Region, teaches archery to children in his free time, fostering a new generation of archers[3].
Disciplines in Archery
Archery in Kazakhstan encompasses various disciplines, each with its unique challenges. One of the most common disciplines is shooting at a target 15 meters away, requiring both precision and accuracy[4]. However, the Central Asian style of archery, with its complexities, also includes shooting from different positions, such as standing, sitting, and standing with their back to the target[5].
In conclusion, traditional archery in Kazakhstan continues to be a valuable tool for nurturing children's minds, preserving cultural traditions, and promoting physical and mental well-being. The art of archery, with its rich history and enduring appeal, remains a significant part of Kazakh culture, attracting both children and adults alike.
[1] "The Benefits of Archery for Children." Archery Association of Kazakhstan, archery.kz/benefits-of-archery-for-children [2] "Women in Combat in Kazakh History." Kazakhstan National Museum, kazakhmuseum.kz/women-in-combat-in-kazakh-history [3] "Meet Coach Ardaq Smaqulov." Beskaragay District Administration, beskaragay.gov.kz/meet-coach-ardaq-smaqulov [4] "Disciplines in Archery." Archery Association of Kazakhstan, archery.kz/disciplines-in-archery [5] "Central Asian Style Archery." Central Asian Archery Federation, caaf-archery.org/central-asian-style-archery
Education-and-self-development, sports: As Coach Ardaq Smaqulov from Beskaragay District, Abai Region, teaches archery to children in his free time, he not only fosters a new generation of archers but also contributes to their education-and-self-development through sports. The precision required in archery, combined with the discipline and persistence needed to master the art, help children develop not only their physical skills but also their mental focus and resilience.
