Analysis of Muscle Activation and Postural Sway of a Malaysian Elite Pistol Shooter

Consistency in performance is crucial in skills sports such as shooting. A comparison of the performance of a Malaysian elite male pistol athlete was conducted across two session trials on different days. Activation of eight muscles, body weight distribution, body sway and score as performance outcome were investigated. The results were analyzed using the SPSS software. Descriptive statistics and independent t-test analysis between the high and low scores of the athlete were conducted. Findings revealed that sway and percentage of weight do not influence the score of the athlete. Muscle activation within a certain range and arrangement was found to influence the score of the athlete. Training programs for athletes should be individualized in accordance with this. Sports scientists and coaches alike can use continuous electromyography assessment to provide augmented feedback to the athletes post-training to ensure consistency in performance.