Holding a bow correctly allows for proper arrow release, accuracy, and power. The most common way to hold a bow is with the Mediterranean style, which involves using three fingers to draw the string. The thumb, index finger, and middle finger are placed on the string, with the nock of the arrow resting on the index finger. The bow is held in the palm of the hand, with the thumb on the back of the bow and the other fingers curled around the front.
There are other ways to hold a bow, such as the thumb draw, which is used in traditional archery. In the thumb draw, the arrow is held between the thumb and forefinger, and the string is drawn back using the thumb. This method is less common than the Mediterranean style but can be more accurate for some archers.
