Some ideas on scheduling your first serious season of competition

Published on January 6, 2024
Duration: 10:25

This video provides guidance on scheduling a competition season for competitive shooting, emphasizing intentionality over attending every available match. Instructor Ben Stoeger advises centering the season around a 'goal match,' such as USPSA Nationals, using smaller matches like Area or State championships as warm-ups. He recommends approximately one match per month to allow sufficient time for implementing lessons learned and continuing training, rather than burning out by shooting too frequently. Stoeger also cautions against investing all available funds into ammunition for the first season, suggesting a balanced approach to avoid disappointment and maintain motivation over the long term.

Quick Summary

For a serious competition shooting season, aim for approximately one match per month. This frequency allows sufficient time to implement lessons learned from previous matches and continue with your training program, preventing burnout and maximizing improvement. Prioritize match timing that aligns with your training goals, even if it requires travel, over simply attending the closest event.

Chapters

  1. 00:02Introduction and Question
  2. 01:00Defining Competition Goals
  3. 01:21Structuring the Competition Season
  4. 02:00The Match-Train-Implement Cycle
  5. 02:35Recommended Match Frequency
  6. 03:44Distinguishing Serious Matches
  7. 04:29Addressing Time and Money Constraints
  8. 05:11Prioritizing Match Timing
  9. 06:06Budgeting for Ammo and Season
  10. 06:34Avoiding Disappointment in First Season
  11. 07:57Diminishing Returns on Ammo
  12. 08:54Long-Term Scheduling Perspective
  13. 09:08Maintaining Motivation and Hunger
  14. 10:12Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ideal frequency for shooting competition matches in a season?

For a serious competition season, it's recommended to shoot approximately one match per month. This allows sufficient time between events to implement lessons learned from previous matches and continue with your training program, preventing burnout and maximizing improvement.

How should I prioritize which matches to attend?

Prioritize matches based on timing that aligns with your training goals and allows for practice before and after. While proximity is convenient, it's often better to travel for a match with ideal timing than to attend a local one with poor scheduling for your development.

Should I spend all my extra money on ammo for my first competition season?

No, it's not advisable to invest all your extra money into ammunition for your first serious competition season. This can lead to disappointment if your performance doesn't meet expectations, potentially causing a loss of motivation. Save some funds for flexibility and other needs.

What is the purpose of smaller matches like Area or State championships?

Smaller matches such as Area or State championships serve as valuable warm-up events. They provide opportunities to prepare for larger, more significant competitions like USPSA Nationals, allowing you to gauge your readiness and identify areas for improvement in a competitive environment.

More Range & Competition Videos You Might Like

More from Ben Stoeger

View all →