What type of shooting stance is commonly taught in basic pistol courses?

The standing position is commonly taught in basic pistol courses because it is one of the most fundamental stances for shooting. This stance allows the shooter to maintain a stable base while providing good mobility and balance. In a standing position, the shooter can easily adjust their posture to accommodate different shooting scenarios and is typically able to react quickly if they need to reposition or move.

Employing the standing position enables shooters to have better control over their firearm, which is critical for precision and accuracy. This stance also facilitates proper weight distribution and alignment with the target, making it easier to manage recoil and maintain target focus.

While other positions such as sitting, kneeling, or prone may have their own advantages in specific circumstances or competitions, the standing position is foundational in teaching the basic principles of firing a pistol effectively, especially for beginners who need to develop their shooting fundamentals.