Effects of Foot Stance Width Ratio on Plantar Pressure and Performance in Rifle Shooting Athletes

The purpose of This study to analyze the effects of Foot Stance Width (FSW) on plantar pressure and performance in 50m rifle shooting in the standing position, with the goal of proposing optimal stance widths for individual shooters to improve performance. The participants were six rifle shooters from K University, and plantar pressure metrics, including contact area, peak pressure, mean force, and shooting scores, were measured and compared under three stance width conditions: FSW, FSW+5cm, and FSW-5cm. Results showed that the FSW+5cm and FSW-5cm conditions demonstrated the largest contact areas at the lateral regions of the left foot (Mask6, Mask5), along with significant increases in peak pressure and mean force, contributing to stable weight distribution and posture maintenance. Shooting scores were also higher under the FSW+5cm and FSW-5cm conditions compared to the baseline FSW, with notable improvements in S3, S4, and S5 under FSW-5cm (at least a 4-point increase) and a 10-point increase in S6 under FSW+5cm. These findings indicate that adjusting stance width provides stable postures tailored to individual physical characteristics, positively affecting shooting performance. This study highlights the importance of stance width adjustments in improving shooting performance and provides empirical evidence for the development of systematic and scientifically-based training programs. Subsequent research needs to involve participants from more diverse backgroundsand broader conditions for a comprehensive analysis of the relationship between stance width and shooting performance.