In biathlon, the targets are set at a distance of 50 meters from the shooting mat in all standard competitions.

Quick Scoop

  • Shooting distance: 50 meters for every bout.
  • Number of targets: 5 circular plates per shooting bout.
  • Target size:
    • Prone: about 45 mm (1.8 inches) in diameter.
* Standing: about 115 mm (4.5 inches) in diameter.
  • Positions: Athletes alternate between prone and standing depending on the race format.

So when you see biathletes stop at the range during a race, they are trying to hit five small black circles 50 m away, with the size changing depending on whether they are lying down or standing.

Note: Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.