New Delhi: The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has launched a four-day Sports Science Workshop for coaches of shooting and archery, reinforcing the government’s push to integrate science-backed training into elite sport.
Government Push for Science-Driven Training
Addressing the coaches, Shri Rao said the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports remains fully committed to supporting sports science initiatives. However, he emphasised that investments must be strategic and outcome-oriented.
He noted that sports science plays a crucial role in injury prevention, efficient training and extending athletes’ careers. According to him, strengthening scientific support systems also helps reduce long-term financial pressure on athletes and their families.
Building on Earlier Sensitisation Programmes
The precision sports workshop follows a series of coach sensitisation programmes launched in December last year. Similar sessions have already been conducted for disciplines such as hockey, boxing, wrestling, judo and athletics.
SAI officials said the aim is to ensure uniform, world-class scientific support for athletes across all sports, regardless of discipline or location. Plans are also underway to expand sports science centres nationwide.
Focus on Shooting and Archery Performance
The current workshop adopts a performance-driven lens tailored specifically to shooting and archery. These sports demand extreme consistency, postural control and mental composure, where even small improvements can have a decisive impact.
Coaches are being trained in biomechanics, stability training and movement analysis to enhance technical efficiency. Sessions also explore methods to reduce overuse injuries common among elite precision athletes.
Holistic Athlete Development
The programme covers a wide range of topics including physiology, recovery sciences, sports psychology and sports medicine. Coaches are engaging with modules on nutrition, hydration, yoga-based recovery and long-term athlete health.
Applied sports psychology sessions focus on concentration, pressure management and emotional regulation, critical factors in high-stakes competition environments.
Technology and Data-Driven Coaching
Advanced practical sessions introduce coaches to neurofeedback, visualisation techniques, wearable technology and AI-based performance analysis. These tools are designed to help coaches monitor training loads, recovery patterns and competition readiness.
The sessions are being delivered by experts from across the SAI ecosystem, including specialists from New Delhi, Bengaluru, Sonipat, Kolkata, Gandhinagar and Patiala, along with domain experts from the National Rifle Association of India.
Long-Term Medal Vision
Brigadier (Dr.) Bibhu Kalyan Nayak, Director-cum-Head of the SAI Sports Science Division, said the initiative reflects an athlete-centric, coach-led approach backed by science. He added that such focused engagements will contribute positively to India’s international medal prospects.
With sustained emphasis on scientific training and coach education, SAI aims to build a robust support system that helps Indian athletes consistently compete at the highest global level.
