The effects of balance, functional strength, and mental training models on pistol shooting performance in tactical athletes

Aim: This study examines the effects of balance, functional strength, and mental training models on optimizing pistol shooting performance in tactical athletes. Tactical athletes are required to make rapid decisions under high stress, demonstrate precise motor skills, and maximize physical endurance. Shooting performance is not just a mechanical skill but a complex process shaped by the interaction of cognitive, neurophysiological, and psychomotor elements. In this context, the study aims to evaluate the holistic effects of different training methods on shooting performance and to determine the most effective preparation strategies for tactical athletes. Materials and Methods: The study included 40 male tactical athletes between the ages of 22 and 40 each with at least four years of training experience. Participants were randomly assigned to one of four groups: balance (n=10), functional strength (n=10), mental training (n=10), and control (n=10). Over eight weeks, the experimental groups followed their specific training programs, while the control group continued their regular physical activities. Shooting performance was assessed using isometric strength tests (grip strength, shoulder flexion, and trunk rotation strength), dynamic balance measurements, heart rate variability (HRV) analyses, and the 5x5 Classifier Shooting Test Protocol. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey post-hoc tests in SPSS 28.0 (p<0.05). Results: Functional strength training significantly increased isometric upper extremity strength (p<0.005). Balance training improved dynamic balance performance (p<0.05), while mental training significantly enhanced focus duration during shooting (p<0.005). In terms of shooting performance, initial shot time and total shooting times significantly reduced in the experimental groups (p<0.05). Additionally, recoil height and width showed a significant reduction in both the functional strength and balance training groups (p<0.01). No statistically significant changes were observed in the control group. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that balance, functional strength, and mental training models significantly improve pistol shooting performance in tactical athletes. The results highlight the critical role of integrating physical and cognitive components, particularly for optimizing motor skill performance under stress. Functional strength training improves isometric strength, balance training improves postural stability, and mental training improves cognitive focus. Based on these findings, it is recommended that physical and cognitive training be integrated into the training process of tactical athletes. Keywords: Tactical Athletes, Pistol Shooting Performance, Functional Strength, Mental Training, Balance