Planning and Visualization

In shotgunning, planning and visualization are critical components to success. When faced with a challenging target, it’s essential to approach it with determination and a clear plan of action.

One thing that experienced coaches understand is that demonstrating targets is key to improving your skills. When we demonstrate a challenging shot, we know precisely what we’re doing, even if the gun doesn’t fit us perfectly. We can visualize the shot, plan our approach, and execute it flawlessly.

For beginners, the key to success is to approach every shot with a similar level of determination and visualization. The more clearly you can visualize the shot you want to make, the more quickly and consistently you’ll be able to execute it. That’s why it’s important to focus on being decisive about what you’re going to do, rather than worrying about being perfect or correct.

If you second-guess yourself, you’ll interrupt the flow of blood to your right brain, which is essential for breaking the target in the air. The left brain simply doesn’t have the bandwidth to figure out the lead and kill the bird.

Well, it can do it, but certain things have to occur. The target has to be flying at the same speed and the same distance in the same line for over three-tenths of a second for the left brain to figure out the lead and kill the bird.

However, if you approach each shot with the right attitude and a clear plan of action, you’ll be able to stabilize the target and pull the trigger with confidence.

Ultimately, the key to success in shotgun sports is practice, persistence, and patience. When you take the time to visualize your shots and approach each target with determination, you can improve your skills and achieve greater success on the range. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced shooter, the principles of planning and visualization are critical to your success. So next time you approach a pair of targets, remember to stay focused, stay determined, and execute your shot with confidence.

 

This is an excerpt from the June 2013 Coaching Hour podcast. You can listen to it and read a written transcript, along with more than 20 years of archived episodes with your Knowledge Vault membership.