The British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) has conducted extensive research into the social, physical, and personal wellbeing benefits of shooting sports. This article delves into how shooting contributes to social mobility, health, education, and community engagement, highlighting various programs and initiatives that demonstrate the positive impact of participating in shooting sports.
Social Mobility
- Shooting is an inclusive sport that puts individuals of all backgrounds on equal footing
- BASC research shows significant social benefits for participants
- Programs like Clay Coaching at the Jamboree and Young Shots promote social interaction
Shooting sports have proven to be a great equalizer, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and fostering social connections. BASC’s research revealed that 97% of respondents regularly mixed with at least one person due to shooting activities, with an average of 23 social connections. The majority of participants reported that shooting was crucial to their social life and personal wellbeing. Programs like Clay Coaching at the Jamboree have introduced thousands of Scouts and Girl Guides to shooting sports, promoting broader positive social outcomes and building friendships.
Health Benefits
- Shooting contributes to physical wellbeing and outdoor engagement
- 84% of surveyed participants reported shooting as important to their physical wellbeing
- Shooting activities range from moderate to high-intensity physical activities
The health benefits of shooting sports extend beyond just physical activity. BASC’s research showed that 84% of surveyed participants considered shooting important to their physical wellbeing. The majority of respondents engaged in physical activity either directly through shooting or indirectly through related activities like beating, picking up, or conservation work. Shooting also encourages people to spend time outdoors, connecting with nature and potentially serving as a form of ‘ecotherapy’ that supports mental wellbeing.
Educational Impact
- Shooting sports teach personal responsibility, self-control, and discipline
- BASC offers various training and educational courses
- Programs like ‘Game Changer’ teach students about game meat and cooking
Shooting sports play a significant role in education, teaching participants valuable life skills such as personal responsibility, self-control, and discipline. Target shooting, in particular, allows those who may not excel at team sports to compete and build self-esteem. BASC offers a wide range of training and educational courses, from Deer Stalking Certificates to firearms awareness training. The ‘Game Changer’ program, launched by BASC and its Taste of Game initiative, aims to teach 60,000 students about game meat and cooking by 2020, fostering a connection between young people and natural food sources.
Community Engagement and Diversity
- Shooting sports bring economic benefits to rural communities
- The sport is accessible to people of all ages, genders, abilities, and backgrounds
- BASC supports initiatives for injured veterans and disabled individuals
Shooting sports have a significant impact on local communities, particularly in rural areas. They bring in tourism and generate economic activity through spending on accommodation, food, and related services. The inclusive nature of shooting makes it accessible to people of all ages, genders, abilities, and backgrounds. BASC supports initiatives like ‘Shooting for Heroes’, which aids in the rehabilitation of injured soldiers, demonstrating the sport’s potential to positively impact diverse groups within society.
Building a Pipeline of Talent
- BASC invests in coaching and training programs
- Recommendation for regional centers of excellence
- Call for legislative changes to support competitive shooting
To build a pipeline of talent in shooting sports, BASC has invested heavily in providing a network of qualified airgun and shotgun coaches nationwide. The organization recommends developing regional centers of excellence across the UK to identify and nurture talented shooters consistently. BASC also advocates for legislative changes to enable British athletes to compete on a level playing field internationally, including amending the Firearms Acts to allow the ownership and use of .22 target pistols for competitive sporting purposes.
In conclusion,
shooting sports offer a wide range of social, health, educational, and community benefits. From fostering social connections and promoting physical wellbeing to teaching valuable life skills and supporting rural economies, the impact of shooting sports extends far beyond the activity itself. As the sport continues to evolve and grow, it has the potential to make an even greater positive impact on individuals and communities across the UK.