Shotgun Clay Sports

So many times my students come me with the same complaint: When I was with my instructor I shot really well, but afterwards I reverted back to my old habits and couldn’t hit anything.

Since many wing and clays shooters don’t understand the differences between a shotgun instructor and a shotgun coach, they often end up wasting time and money with little to show for it.

An important reason why is because the student hasn’t clearly defined their goals. For example, a shotgun coach provides life lessons in shooting compared an instructor who focuses on breaking targets.

When newcomers step into the shotgun sports – whether for clays, hunting prep, or a recreational outing – they often book time with an instructor. It’s the most common entry point, and for good reason: instructors are generally certified, safety-conscious, and trained to give beginners a good first experience.

Biomechanics is the study of the action of internal and external forces on the living body, especially on the skeletal system, which includes the analysis of motion.  When we’re engaged in tournament clay target shooting (Trap, Skeet, or Sporting Clays) it’s crucial that we apply the proper or correct biomechanics with regard to our posture, form, and movement. This certainly helps us to endure the least amount of body stress and fatigue as we engage in lengthy tournament situations.  As I work with students, from novice to advanced, one of the first things we review is their “most comfortable shooting position.” From that we’ll then make whatever adjustments or corrections are needed so as to incorporate the proper shooting form and posture.