How to Train to Be a Master Marksman

To become a truly master marksman, a person must be willing to put in a lifetime of training. Unlike some sports where the athlete's skill is dependent on youth and strength, shooting is a sport that is based on precision and skill. Expert marksmen are often much older than other professional competitors. An extreme example of this is exemplified by Oscar Swahn. This Swedish marksman is the oldest person to win a gold medal at the Olympics. He won the sport shooting gold in 1912.

Instructions

    • 1

      Create a fit and healthy body. Follow a balanced diet and exercise often. Include flexibility and strength training along with cardiovascular exercise. You need a strong, injury-resistant body that is healthy in order to build shooting stamina and for mental focus, as the body's health is connected to mental health, which is critical for shooting.

    • 2

      Learn the proper breathing technique for shooting. Do not breathe when you actually pull the trigger. Breathe in deeply and then breathe out. Stop breathing after exhaling completely and give yourself several seconds to be completely still and without breath before you pull the trigger.

    • 3

      Allow your body and gravity to support yourself as much as possible when shooting prone. The more effort you put into supporting and aiming the rifle, the quicker fatigue and error will set in. Prop your forearm perfectly vertical under the front of the rifle. This is the optimum position that requires the least energy.

    • 4

      Concentrate on not gripping the gun too hard. This applies to both rifle and pistol shooting. Grip the gun just hard enough to keep it from shaking or being loose in your hands, and so that you can control the recoil. If your knuckles are white, you are likely gripping the gun far too hard, which compromises accuracy.

    • 5

      Practice every day and take lessons when you get the chance. Master marksmen around the country have schools where proper shooting technique is taught. Even great shooters improve when given instruction from a good teacher.