Biathlon

Biathlon is a winter sport that combines two disciplines: cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. It originated from the traditional skills of hunting and military exercises, requiring athletes to traverse a rugged, snowy terrain on skis while accurately shooting at targets with a rifle at designated points during the race. Competitors navigate a course that typically includes several laps of skiing interspersed with shooting stages, where they must hit a series of targets. Penalties, such as additional skiing distance, are assigned for missed shots. Biathlon is featured in the Winter Olympic Games and various international competitions, emphasizing both endurance and precision.