Sport shooting FFTir: the 5 bad habits to avoid for safe progress

The sport shooting in France is a discipline governed by the French Shooting Federation (FFTir). With over 250,000 members, it brings together beginner, advanced, and competitive shooters in disciplines as varied as rifle, pistol, 10-meter shooting, and long-distance shooting.

But whether one is a beginner or has been practicing for several years, certain bad habits persistent in the shooting ranges. They not only hinder technical progress but can also compromise the security, fundamental value of the FFTir.

In this article, we will detail the 5 most common bad habits, why they pose a problem, and how to correct them while respecting the FFTir standards.

1. Lifting the head too soon after the shot: a common mistake

Many shooters, as soon as they pull the trigger, have the reflex to lift their head or turn their head towards the target to check the impact.

Why is it a bad habit ?

• This interrupts the Follow-through.

• This prevents the development of a coherent gestural memory.

• This creates a "parasitic movement" that is difficult to correct afterward.

Correction according to the FFTir

The FFTir insists on the stability of the gesture I am trained on data up to October 2023.

• Maintain the aim after the shot is fired.

• Control your breathing and refocus before setting the weapon down.

• Wait for the end of the series or the referee's signal before analyzing the results.

This gestural anchoring work is essential to achieve Regular scores in FFTir competition.

2. Picking up one's equipment in the middle of a shooting sequence

In some stands, shooters can be seen picking up their Casings or magazines dropped while the line is still active.

Why is this a mistake ?

• It diverts attention from security.

• This exposes to dangerous sudden movements.

• This violates FFTir rules, which prohibit any handling off the firing line as long as the line is not secured.

FFTir Correction

• Wait for the referee or the supervisor to declare the line "cold".

• Only retrieve the equipment after a visual inspection and given order.

• Respect the booth etiquette and common safety rules.

The FFTir reminds that the Collective security takes precedence over individual comfort.

3. Shooting in a state of fatigue or distraction

A tired, dehydrated, or poorly focused shooter loses their vigilance. This leads to handling errors or a drop in performance.

Why is it dangerous ?

• The environmental awareness (situational awareness) decreases.

• Reflexes are slower, which can be critical.

• Shooting becomes a constraint rather than a pleasure.

FFTir Correction

The Federation recommends:

• Practice in good physical and mental conditions.

• Take regular breaks.

• Stay hydrated and avoid long sessions under excessive fatigue.

The Physical and mental condition is a pillar of FFTir sport shooting.

4. Shooting too quickly without technical control

Many shooters prioritize speed over accuracy. The result: poorly placed shots and an imprecise technique.

Why is it a bad habit ?

• Speed never compensates for a poorly executed move.

• Muscle memory is built on bad movements.

• The results are stagnating despite the training.

FFTir Correction

• Adopt a Pedagogical progression : slow → regular → fast.

• Work on the fundamentals (posture, breathing, release, aiming).

• Increase the speed only once accuracy is mastered.

In FFTir shooting, Precision and regularity always take precedence over speed.

5. Choosing an internship or training that is not suited to one's level

Some shooters enroll in courses that are either too advanced or, conversely, too basic. This leads to frustration or a lack of progress.

Why is it a problem ?

• An internship that is too difficult is demotivating.

• An internship that is too easy does not provide new skills.

• This slows down the shooter's progress.

FFTir Correction

• Choose a training program suited to your level (beginner, advanced, competition).

• Rely on the FFTir shooting schools, the initiators and certified trainers.

• Respect the official educational progression.

The FFTir guarantees suitable programs, from recreational shooters to international competitors.

Best FFTir Practices for Progressing in Sport Shooting

1. Safety first : always follow the handling rules.

2. Healthy gestural memory : develop good habits from the start.

3. Qualified supervision : listen to the coaches, initiators, and FFTir referees.

4. Precision before speed : focus on the quality of the movement before the pace.

5. Customized training : choosing the right internship or course based on one's level.

Conclusion

The Shooting sports supervised by the FFTir is much more than a technical discipline: it is a School of rigor, safety, and personal development.
By avoiding these 5 bad habits — raising their heads too early, pulling when gathering their equipment, neglecting physical fitness, seeking speed at the expense of accuracy, and choosing an unsuitable training regimen — shooters develop strong and sustainable skills.

The key to success in FFTir sport shooting is based on three pillars:

• Discipline and safety,

• adapted technical progression,

• Patience and rigor.

Thus, each session becomes an opportunity to progress calmly, respecting the Sporting and safety values from the FFTir.