The influence of physiobiomechanical parameters, technical aspects of shooting, and psychophysiological factors on biathlon performance: A review

The biathlon, an Olympic sporting discipline that combines cross-country skiing with rifle marksmanship, entails considerable physiological demands, as well as fine motor control while shooting after intense exercise and under mental pressure. Although much of our knowledge about cross-country skiing is probably also applicable to the biathlon, carrying the rifle and shooting under stress make this discipline somewhat unique. The present review summarizes and examines the scientific literature related to biathlon performance, with a focus on physiological and biomechanical factors and shooting technique, as well as psychophysiological aspects of shooting performance. We conclude with suggestions for future research designed to extend our knowledge about the biathlon, which is presently quite limited. •Biathlon is a complex and unique sporting discipline combining cross-country skiing while carrying rifle and shooting under stress.•High lactate threshold and gross mechanical efficiency, in combination with pronounced aerobic capacity, are essential to superior skiing performance in biathlon.•Biathlon performance is also dependent on shooting speed and accuracy as well as several other factors, such as body sway, rifle stability, and triggering behavior.•The preceding physical load prior to shooting undoubtedly alters psychophysiological processes associated with the complex task of aiming, which involves considerable arousal/activation but also and places great demands on focused attention.