Basic Attitude & Stance

Classification

This topic is part of the "Shooting & Getting Better" section.
It builds directly on the dominant eye and applies this insight to body alignment and stance.

A clean basic posture does not happen by chance. It is the result of perception, alignment, and stability.

Basic Principle: Stance Follows the Dominant Eye

When shooting with a slingshot, the dominant eye determines how the target and body are aligned with each other.

The sequence is clear:

  1. Determine dominant eye

  2. Derive stance and body alignment from this

Which hand holds the slingshot?

The slingshot is generally held with the opposite side of the dominant eye.

This means:

  • right eye dominant → slingshot in left hand

  • left eye dominant → slingshot in right hand

The motor skills of the executing hand are adaptable. Visual perception is not.

Which foot is in front?

The stance results directly from the leading hand.

Basic rule

  • The ipsilateral foot to the leading hand is in front

  • The other foot is slightly back

  • The body is slightly open to the target direction

Specifically

  • Slingshot left → left foot forward

  • Slingshot right → right foot forward

This alignment ensures:

  • a stable line from foot, hip, shoulder and hand

  • straight draw

  • a constant aiming axis

Foot position and stance width

A functional stance is:

  • slightly offset

  • about shoulder-width apart

  • stable, but not rigid

The stance must be able to be adopted consistently over many shots.

Weight distribution

The weight distribution is:

  • even

  • slightly oriented backwards

Upper body and shoulders

The upper body remains:

  • upright

  • without twisting

The shoulders:

  • hang loosely

  • are not pulled up

  • do not work against each other

Tension in the upper body directly affects the draw and reduces control and repeatability.

Head posture and line of sight

The head posture is:

  • natural

  • unchanged during the draw

Important:

  • no lateral tilting

  • no conscious head rotation

  • constant line of sight to the target

The target image is created by alignment, not by head movement.

Typical practical errors

  • holding the slingshot with the "strong hand" even though the eye works against it

  • wrong foot forward

  • changing foot positions

  • excessive body tension

Correct approach

A functional stance feels:

  • stable

  • calm

  • natural

.

If the stance is correct:

  • the draw becomes more consistent

  • aiming becomes clearer

  • the shot feels controlled

Placement in the learning path

With a clarified basic posture and a clean stance, the next step is possible:
a consistent draw and a clear anchor point.

➡️ Continue to: Draw & Anchor Point