Curing the "shakes", shooting anxiety?

[BMartin1776]

Your adrenalin is flowing while simply shooting paper targets at the range? You might want to check your pulse and blood pressure...you might have something medical going on that's causing the jitters.

Thanks Im good was in hospital few mos ago for kidney stone everything checked out fine

[BMartin1776]

thanks guys, Id shoot more but I'm unemployed (anyone wanna help a guy out?) so every shot has to count when i go... When I was working and first got my HK (MANY moons ago) I use to go every weekend.... now its once every few mos

[L84CABO]

Part of the problem is I don't shoot often.

I think you've probably answered your own question. Shooting a gun can be a very emotional experience...especially for newer shooters. More time on the range, some classes to build experience and familiarity, etc., will likely help...but I understand the money issue.

Also, how do you feel about meditation? Meditation can help in a lot of areas of life. And once you have a little experience with it, you can try to meditate before shooting. Also try some deep breathing exercises prior to and during shooting. Like, fire your first mag and see what you're feeling. If you're anxious, put the gun down and take some deep breaths. If you google "meditation" and "deep breathing exercises," you should get plenty of help.

[terry4130]

[sealocan]

Along with all the other things stated above, like going shooting more often, I'd suggest doubling up on hearing protection.
Sometimes very loud sounds that are repetitive can affect your nervous system, usually in a minor way. It's your brain telling your body to get away from the noise/ concussion / pressure wave.

And as for going in to the range with the right type of breathing there are plenty of YouTube videos that help you (or even athletes before going into an event) just do a search for "guided breathing for calmness". Try a few out and if you find one you like listen to it in your car in the parking lot before you going to the range.

[russ69]

For every 5 rounds of 45ACP you need to shoot 20 rounds of 22LR. You need to keep the same fundamentals with the 22LR and 45 ACP and that includes easing the shot off and follow through.

[d33pt]

For every 5 rounds of 45ACP you need to shoot 20 rounds of 22LR. You need to keep the same fundamentals with the 22LR and 45 ACP and that includes easing the shot off and follow through.

I was going to suggest that too. I find when I start out shooting a 22 first, I shoot better later.

[Tere_Hanges]

Do you exercise? Like weight lifting and cardio? Also meditation, breathing exercises. It will help you clear your mind make it easier to control your nerves. Shooting does require some mind control. As with every sport crosstraining will help you.

You'll notice a lot of the top women shooters are in to yoga and pilates. There is a reason

[BMartin1776]

Along with all the other things stated above, like going shooting more often, I'd suggest doubling up on hearing protection.
Sometimes very loud sounds that are repetitive can affect your nervous system, usually in a minor way. It's your brain telling your body to get away from the noise/ concussion / pressure wave.

I do, I have custom plugs and wear muffs over them bc I have ringing ears as it is (NOT from shooting)

[BMartin1776]

Do you exercise? Like weight lifting and cardio? Also meditation, breathing exercises. It will help you clear your mind make it easier to control your nerves. Shooting does require some mind control. As with every sport crosstraining will help you.

You'll notice a lot of the top women shooters are in to yoga and pilates. There is a reason

yep lift 4 days a week, do cardio morning and at night every day

[M1NM]

Work on holding a 5lb bag of flour at arms length for 15-20 minutes a day.

[CouchOperator]

Dry practice more.

Seek instruction. RO's are NOT instructors.

[Schutzman]

Put more time in

[Guns and guitars]

Shoot more.

[Mayor McRifle]

Put more time in

^Exactly.