Matt Stutzman is focusing on outdoor archery to preserve his health ©Getty Images

Paralympic archery silver medallist Matt Stutzman has explained that he was forced to miss the indoor season last year to protect his long-term health, and that he is set to do the same again.

The American decided to focus on the outdoor circuit due to concerns of overshooting if he competed too often.

"Usually, I shoot all the indoor stuff," he said.

"This season, I skipped indoors to focus on the outdoors.

"My right hip was causing me a few problems from overshooting, so I felt like I needed a couple of months to let that heal.

"I had some physical therapy, and it's getting back to normal.

"I would say it’s 90 per cent now.

"I love the indoor season.

Matt Stutzman, left, won individual compound silver at London 2012 and is aiming to compete at Paris 2024 ©Getty Images
Matt Stutzman, left, won individual compound silver at London 2012 and is aiming to compete at Paris 2024 ©Getty Images

"I'm not going to lie.

"I usually did really well indoors.

"I was able to shoot 300 in Vegas.

"I feel the indoor season helps my outdoor season because it teaches me consistency.

"That’s basically the game.

"I'll miss [indoors] this year, but I don’t feel like it’s going to affect my outdoor season because I’m recovering.

"I'm using this time to let my body heal."

Last year, Stutzman was crowned World Archery Para champion for the first time in his career, which has already seen him appear in three Paralympic Games, winning individual compound silver at London 2012.

Stutzman is set to defend his world title at the World Archery Para Championships in July which serves as the primary qualifying event for Paris 2024.