About Private Lessons
If you are a brand new shooter, your private lesson will start with a “do’s & don’ts” safety brief covering the 4 Rules of Gun Safety, additional rules, and etiquette of the range. You will also be given an overview of the firearm and its parts, functions, and fit. Be ready to talk about why you are taking the lesson, so that your instructor understands your goals, motivations, and expectations. A good instructor will focus on you from head to toe, so don’t feel intimidated. He or she may ask permission to touch you on your back or put their hands on your hands while shooting. It is all part of the process to make sure you are in correct form.
Depending on your instructor and/or facility, you can expect to spend 1 to 2 hours split between the classroom and the range, and shoot 50 to 100 rounds of ammunition. Many times when learning a new skill in a 1:1 environment your brain may get “full” around the 1-hour mark. If your instructor only offers 2-hour blocks, ask for breaks and communicate if you are getting tired or overwhelmed.
Record your notes and progress in your Shooting Journal during your lesson. Document the type of gun(s) you worked with, distances and any other nuggets of information you found especially useful or created an “ah-hah” moment. Take a picture of the target with your cell phone to have a visual reminder of where you started, so that you can measure your improvement.
Private Lesson Success
Find the right instructor for you! Communication before, during, and after your lesson, so that you are sure that you get what you need. Give yourself plenty of time before and after your lesson time. Don’t be rushed or stressed out thinking about where else you need to be.
Avoid negative self-talk. Don’t shake your head “no” if you make a mistake or don’t do the exercise exactly right. Be open minded about learning something new and different. If it doesn’t work for you after a few repetitions, talk with your instructor about modifications you can make that are acceptable and safe.
As with any physical activity, be sure to hydrate! You might be sore after your first lesson, you will be using different muscles in your arms, core, and legs. Practice the skills going forward and you will see an increase in physical and mental strength, confidence, and shooting proficiency.
SOURCE ARTICLE: https://www.agirlandagun.org/benefits-of-private-instruction/
