A methodology for shooting training of biathletes aged 14–15 during the transition from air rifles to small-caliber rifles

The purpose of the study is to develop and experimentally substantiate the effectiveness of a methodology for shooting training of biathletes aged 14–15 during the period of changing the type of weapon. Research methods and organization. The following research methods were applied: analysis and synthesis of scientific literature, testing, and methods of mathematical statistics. The study was conducted from May to November 2025. Biathletes aged 14–15 holding the 2nd sports category in biathlon took part in the pedagogical experiment. The developed methodology, including sets of exercises for dry training and for work with a shot, was included in the shooting training of the experimental group. The methodology is aimed at adapting athletes when changing the type of weapon from air to small-caliber. Research results and conclusions. When the developed methodology was introduced into the training process, faster adaptation to small-caliber weapons was revealed in athletes of the experimental group than in athletes of the control group.