So often instructors get stuck in a mindset of this is how to grip, this is how to stand, this is how to whatever. But what about the student who had a limitation, who can't do it that way? Or what if you can't do it that way? Are you prepared to think on your feet and come up with ideas?
One of the most common examples I've seen is a hand limitation. I worked with someone quite recently who was recovering from a stroke and had lost most of the control of his dominant hand. He still wanted to keep his trusty .38 for home defense but asked for advice on how to hold it. I encouraged him to practice with his left hand, which works perfectly. Remember, if you are going to shoot one handed, cant, or angle the gun, slightly toward to center. 20-30 degrees is enough. This gives your wrist more stability.
I've been putting too much wear and tear on my hip and have small tears in the lining and other issues. This meant using a cane for a while. Well, what looks more vulnerable than a 50+ woman limping through a parking lot? a 50+ woman limping through a parking lot with a cane. So, BOB earned his place again with me practicing balance while wielding the cane to create distance and give me a chance to do something else...running isn't really an option at this point.
What do these two things have in common? Limitations, and identifying workarounds. It doesn't have to be complicated, but find a way and then practice that way. If it is you, remember, you CAN DO THIS. It may take a little out of the box thinking, but you can do this.
If you are an instructor working with a student who has a challenge, remember they are probably frustrated and really need your patience, understanding and support. Help them find a way. You may have to try a couple different ways before one works, but part of being an instructor is taking your student as they are.
Safe Shooting!
