Most women have been taught to shoot by their father, husband, or another male. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that, except for the fact that the stance they are shown is not nearly as effective for women. I don’t blame the men in our lives, in fact I applaud them for wanting to put a gun in our hands and encouraging us to protect ourselves. Besides, how could they possibly know that adjusting their lady’s stance would drastically improve her aim?
Allow me to remove the mystery and explain. Are you aware of the ‘chair challenge’ that has gone viral? If not, I urge you to watch it on YouTube and try it for yourself. I won’t go into depth about the challenge, but one of the reasons that women can lift the chair and men can’t is largely due to her center of gravity versus a man’s. A female’s center of gravity is in her hips, while a man’s is much higher around the shoulders. So, how does this impact the way we shoot? When a man stands relatively straight and shoots, he is strong enough to absorb the “kick” and remain on target whereas a woman’s shoulders and upper back will visibly move unless she has increased her own core strength.
Okay, what’s the solution? Ride the motorcycle. Well, figuratively. Rather than standing with only a slight bend at the waist, bend your knees and your waist as though you are riding a motorcycle (see attached picture). At first it will feel odd, but trust me, in no time you will love it. Just for fun, stand with only a slight bend at the waist. Pretend you are aiming at a target with your arms locked. Roll back your shoulders. It should be fairly easy. Now, ride the motorcycle. With bent knees and much more bend at your waist, take aim again. Roll back your shoulders. It is much more difficult, isn’t it? Why? It’s because you have compensated for your center of gravity.
Cayman, seen above, was really struggling with her aim. I adjusted her stance and instantly (as with every other female with whom I work) her aim dialed in and she was thrilled. It actually made me laugh when she said, “This is a life changer!” Well, when you love the sport and suddenly that frustration is removed, I suppose it is a life changer.
I hope this helps you, ladies. And men? You may now be the hero. Although there is a real likelihood that she will out shoot you.
I would be delighted to work with any ladies and the new Range Shooting Practice we offer for only $35 is the perfect opportunity. If you don’t see a convenient day, let us know and we will do our best to accommodate you.
Rhynda “Storm” Stephens
Instructor