Target shooting with small-bore rifles, air rifles and air pistols is part of one of the largest participant sports in the country. It is open to all, irrespective of age, gender or ability and has a proven track record of improving an individual's concentration and motivation.
Although target shooting was one of the original founding sports for the modern Olympic Games started in 1896, its popularity amongst civilians only really took off in 1900 as a consequence of the Boer War. The Boers' superior marksmanship lead to increasing concern at the capability of the Army to defend the population against invasion. The call went out from the head of the army, Lord Roberts, for the populace to learn to shoot to defend their country, and in due course civilian small-bore shooting clubs were formed from which the sport grew.
Small-bore rifle shooting is mostly carried out over distances of 25 yards, 50 yards/metres and 100 yards. Most 25 yard ranges are indoors, and almost all longer ranges are outdoors. Airgun shooting is at 6 yards, 10 metres or 20 yards. Clubs generally provide all the equipment required to learn to shoot, together with the necessary coaching. All you need to bring is yourself and your enthusiasm.
This is one of the few sports where male and female, and the able and those with disabilities can compete equally against one another. Age is no bar to competition. You can start as soon as you are physically strong enough to hold a firearm safely, and you can continue well beyond retirement age. Once you are proficient there are many competitions around the country open to you, so you need not be restricted to just one venue.