Evaluation and Assessment of Physiological Stress and Strain in Competitive Rifle and Pistol Shooters of West Bengal, India

Introduction: Competitive shooting is a high-pressure sport requiring precision, focus, and mental endurance. Rifle and pistol shooters often experience physiological stress and strain, impacting performance and overall well-being. This study aims to evaluate and assess the subjective physiological stress and strain experienced by competitive rifle and pistol shooters in West Bengal. India. Aim and Objectives: This study aims to find out whether there are any differences in subjective physiological stress and strain among different shooters. Methodology: Twenty-three (Age 28.0 ± 7.54 years) professional shooters randomly have been selected from different clubs of the West Bengal. Data were collected from the shooters during the competition. Shooters were divided into three categories—pistol, rifle, and pistol cum rifle shooters. Nordic Modified Musculoskeletal disorder questionnaire (NMQ), Pain assessment scale (PAS), Wrist strain index (WSI), Sport Anxiety Scale (SAS), and Physical activity level scale (PAL) have been implemented as subjective marker of physiological stress and strain of the shooters. One-way ANOVA was employed for the hypothesis testing, setting p-value < 0.05 for significance. Results and Discussion: NMQ revealed neck (78.26%), right shoulder (69.57%), upper and lower back (47.83%) were most affected body parts of the shooters. WSI and worry score of SAS were significantly different (p < 0.05) among three types of shooters. While, PAS, PAL, Somatic Trait Anxiety Score and concentration disruption score of SAS were statistically similar (p > 0.05) among the groups. Conclusion: Competitive rifle and pistol shooting equipment differ significantly in weight, design, and materials due to the nature of the disciplines. Rifles, typically used in prone, kneeling, and standing positions, are heavier, weighing between 4.5 and 6.5 kg. They have longer barrels, usually 50–70 cm, for precision and stability, often made of high-grade steel or aluminum with synthetic or wooden stocks. Accessories like adjustable buttstocks and fore-end rails enhance stability and aim. Pistols, by contrast, are lighter, around 1–1.5 kg, with shorter barrels (10–15 cm), allowing for greater mobility but requiring more precision control. Materials include steel for the frame and barrel, with polymer or wooden grips for ergonomics. Competitive pistols often feature adjustable sights, triggers, and grips tailored to the shooter’s hand. The weight and ergonomic differences between rifles and pistols demand distinct physical and technical skills from the athletes, influencing their physiological stress and strain during competition.