Get Inspired: How to get into shooting
- Published
Fast Answers | |
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Why get into shooting? | If strength and fitness aren't your forte, shooting requires composure and enormous skill - a real test of your self-control. |
Is there a cheap option? | Shooting can be expensive, but your local club may offer taster days where you can borrow equipment. |
What if I want a proper workout? | Target sprint, external combines rifle shooting with running - check it out! |
Can I take it to another level? | British Shooting have worked hard in recent years to put in place a clear talent pathway. |
Is there a disability option? | Shooting is among the most easily adaptable sports, with alterations to equipment easily made. |
Shooting has been an Olympic sport since the first modern games in 1896 and has a history of providing intrigue and drama.
And with a vast array of disciplines, encompassing various guns, targets and distances, maybe you should pull the trigger and give shooting a try?
Shooting
Elena Allen gunning for gold at Rio Olympics
Shooting is a tense sport that requires immense reserves of skill, concentration and nerve. Strength, stamina, hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills are all improved by taking part.
As shooting events rely on mental power, people of all ages can compete against each other on equal terms. British Shooting's find a club, external section is the best place to start.
A gun for everybody
An Olympic-style air pistol
In the shotgun event, competitors are required to shoot at moving clay pigeons.
With rifles, competitors shoot at a set target from either 10, 25 or 50 metres, with points awarded for a shot's proximity to the centre, much like archery.
Pistol events follow the same format as rifles.
Girls with guns
British Shooting supports the This Girl Can campaign, external, and a number of all-girl clubs throughout Britain, while The Shotgun and Chelsea Bun Club, external combine the twin principles of shooting and cake to appeal to beginners!
Disability shooting
Paralympians can compete in rifle and pistol events
According to British Shooting, disabled people currently make up 25% of recreational shooters - a number that they are committed to increasing further.
Target shooting is incredibly accessible, and requires minimal modification. For more information read here., external
Youth shooting
Athletes competing at the Youth Olympics in Nanjing
Due to the wide range of guns available for use, there is no real age limit on when people can start shooting. British Shooting, external has more information available.
And, as strength isn't important, if you're good enough you'll be able to compete at whatever level your skill warrants.
Coaching and Volunteering
All clubs need a chair, secretary and treasurer to help things run smoothly as well as officials, coaches and judges. Whatever role you're interested in, Join In, external has opportunities to volunteer in your area.
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