Years ago, former Mr. Olympia Frank Zane taught me an equation that changed my approach to archery. I’ve since shared it with national teams and world champions.
The equation is P = EARN. Over the course of my career, that P has meant many things: PROGRESS, PRECISION, being at a PRO level, and even being better at my PROFESSION. You can tie it to a lot of concepts, but the four components remain the same.
Execution and Exercise: Where Progress Starts
The E stands for execution and exercise. Both matter.
The archery industry likes to dive into rabbit holes, but I always come back to the same point: nothing matters more than EXECUTING YOUR PRACTICE!
You’ve got to be disciplined in executing reps and working towards goals. Whether you’re shooting a lot or a little, you have to execute, and you have to study the mechanics that make you better.
For me, the E is split two ways. The other half of that E is EXERCISE.
I credit many of my accomplishments as an archer to focusing on my physical ability just as much as my technical ability. This wasn’t really the norm when I competed with archery. Most archers didn’t prioritize fitness. I, however, put in the work on both, and I totally credit my EXERCISE and physical ability for pulling me to the top of the podium many times.
Attitude: The Tone-Setter for Every Experience
The A is attitude, and you have to get it right.
That means you’re not out looking for a cheat code. You use an equation that works, and you trust it. That’s a big reason this year has been so focused on you internally and having the right mindset.
Your attitude toward training, competition, and your own progression all shape those experiences. Your attitude toward the people around you in practice, competition, and hunting camp sets the tone for that experience.
Rest and Relaxation: The Counterintuitive Accelerator
The R is rest and relaxation, and I’m working on this one now.
I had a great time at TAC Indiana last weekend, and I’ve noticed I’m a little burned out. So I’m doing something I enjoy: setting up a bow for a new archer and teaching them something new.
Spend time with your family, get out, have some fun, and don’t make every single day of your life about archery. Yes, I said that.
When I was competing, I could sustain an extreme level of focus and intention for about a month at a time. When I started going through the motions and getting methodical in my execution or my exercise, that was the signal to bring in some rest, relaxation, and recuperation. A lot of R-words fit.
Nutrition and Nourishment: Fueling the Machine
The N is nutrition and nourishment. I’m big on this one.
My goal on the road was always to eat in a way that matched my performance in practice. I’ve been keto now for four years and three months, and I’ve been able to stay on that path. I use supplements to help me stay there.
Jocko Hydrate is part of that. It’s a full-electrolyte formula that comes in stick packets, so it’s easy to stay dialed in whether I’m at home or on the road.
When you look in the mirror and see you’re making progress, the rest of the equation gets better. You execute and exercise better. Your attitude improves, your self-image improves, and you’re ready for some R&R on a beach.
Putting the Formula to Work
Get out there and put this equation to work. It’s worked for national teams and world championships.
P = EARN.
