[Jason607]

I heard the adage that it takes something like 43 muscles to frown but only 17 muscles to smile. Well, how many and what muscles does it take to shoot a handgun? What muscles absorb the recoil? What kind of excersizes would help strengthen these muscles to help you become a better shot?

 

[Cambo]

As a personal trainer, I can tell you that they are all important. Legs provide the foundation for your stance, strong/enduring legs will keep you planted. The abdominals and low back musculature is important to support the upper body and keep it stable against recoil. Chest, back, front shoulders, mid shoulders and rear shoulders support the gun. Working triceps and biceps wouldn't hurt either. There is probably no need for wrist work unless they are weak or you are shooting a major caliber. I find the slower I do exercises(like a moving isometric), I am better at the range in terms of static position(only trigger finger moves). Standing exercises will probably transfer best. Front and side raises for shoulders will make a difference for shooting. If you any other questions, let me know.

 

[Gallium]

Cambo,

what about folks who are in wheelchairs?

 

[Cambo]

For people in wheelchairs, abdominal and low back strengthening if possible(it can be done with the right equipment). Working the upper body would be slightly easier. I used to have a client with cerebral palsy that affected his legs and we had to do most stuff seated. Bowflex had a model specifically for wheelchair users about 8 - 10 years ago. If the wheelchair was locked in place, it should provide an outstanding base of support for shooting, maybe better than legs themselves.