Full Text 01
Full Text 01
Max Edlund
V029A Independent Project
Sports Science MA
Spring term 2024
Mid Sweden University
Mittuniversitetet
Abstract [168]
This project, conducted in collaboration with Club Haltérophile Luxovien, aimed to compare
the biomechanical aspects of the squat snatch and power snatch in Olympic weightlifting. The
study utilized kinematic video analysis to capture and evaluate the force, power, and velocity
profiles of athletes performing both snatch variations at 60%, 70%, and 80% of their one-
repetition maximum. Data collection involved two synchronized cameras positioned to record
barbell trajectory, which were then analysed using Kinovea software and organized in Excel for
biomechanical assessment.
The practical relevance of this study lies in its potential to enhance coaching strategies by
providing objective data on individual lifter performance, addressing local muscle fatigue, and
optimizing training regimens. The collaboration had challenges as ensuring consistent athlete
performance and camera calibration, suggesting future projects incorporate advanced motion
capture technology. Reflecting on the project, the integration of scientific research with practical
application could prove valuable in refining weightlifting techniques and motivating both
athletes and coaches and underscores the importance of individualized coaching based on
detailed biomechanical analysis.
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Contents
1 Background [792]............................................................................................................. 3
5 Take-home messages.................................................................................................... 10
6 References...................................................................................................................... 12
7 Appendices..................................................................................................................... 17
7.1 Coach feedback ..................................................................................................... 17
7.2 Lifter 1 .................................................................................................................... 18
7.3 Lifter 2 .................................................................................................................... 21
7.4 Lifter 3 .................................................................................................................... 26
7.5 Lifter 4 ................................................................................................................... 30
7.6 Lifter 5 .................................................................................................................... 34
7.7 Lifter 6 ................................................................................................................... 38
7.8 Lifter 7 .................................................................................................................... 42
7.9 Lifter 8 .................................................................................................................... 46
7.10 Lifter 9 .................................................................................................................. 50
7.11 Lifter 10 ................................................................................................................ 54
7.12 Lifter 11 ................................................................................................................ 58
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1 Background [792]
The sport of Weightlifting has been a part of the Olympic games for over 100 years,
the first time it was introduced was in 1896 in Greece (1,2). Weightlifting has since
been symbolic for the Olympic games, hence the sports’ nickname “Olympic
weightlifting”. It is being practised in strength training facilities all around the world
with its powerful lifts from the ground to overhead. One who medals in weightlifting
at the Olympic games or even competes internationally is commonly considered to
possess the utmost highest level of skill and power and is known as the sport where
athletes generate highest rate of force (2). An analysis of an individual lifter's
technique via insight into the forces generated by the lifter could be of great
significance for the individual lifter's development within the sport (1).
Weightlifting is a sport with two standard lifts. With the objective to lift the weight
from ground to overhead. Snatch, which is the first competition lift needs to be
performed in one swift movement from the ground to overhead without stopping the
movement of the barbell. The second competition lift is the clean and jerk, as the name
suggest the lift is comparted into two movement. With the same objective to lift the
bar from the ground to overhead, it is allowed to rest the bar at the shoulders in
between the movements. The lift from the ground to the resting point at the shoulders
is the clean and the lift where the bar moves swiftly off the shoulders to overhead is
the jerk. These are also referred to as the second and third movements in competitive
weightlifting (3).
The first movement, the snatch, is to be considered the most technical of the three
movements (3). Previous studies have successfully revealed a relationship between
the maximum height of the barbell, the maximum velocity of the barbell, and the
success rate of the snatch attempts (4–6). A kinematic method approach to the snatch
lift has been previously successfully taken by several other studies (7–11). This project
was grounded in biomechanics and physics principles, specifically focused on the
calculation of work done during the first weightlifting movement, specifically the
snatch. The scientific foundation involves applying Newtonian mechanics to quantify
the forces and displacements involved in the power and squat variations of the snatch
(see figure 1 below). Utilizing video analysis, this project captured biomechanical
parameters, allowing for an analysis of the work done during each repetition of the
snatch. This approach aligns with established scientific methods for understanding
the mechanics of resistance training (12,13).
The movement pattern for the snatch and its higher catching variation called the
power snatch is described by Gourgoulis et.al (11) Harbilli and Alptekin (14) and
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Nagatani et.al (15) in table 1. Figure 1 shows the movement of each phase with the
corresponding body positions of both the power and squat variation. In the first pull
(see position 1-2 of figure 1) the hips and knees are extended, ankles are plantarflexed
and the athletes’ feet remain in full contact with the floor while the trunk is held
isometric for an effective force transfer to the barbell. During the transition (see
position 2-3 of figure 1) the athlete pushes the knees forward and keeps extending the
hip. With the goal of not losing vertical velocity of the barbell. The secund pull (see
positions 3-4 of figure 1) follows with a powerful plantarflexion together with
maximal knee and hip extension. At the end of this sequence the barbell reaches its
maximal velocity. During the turnover (see position 5-6 of figure 1) the barbell will
reach its peak height, the lifter repositions the body to receive the barbell in the catch
position. After fixation of the barbell the lifter rises up by extending the knees and
hips to a standing position.
Table 1: This table describes the different phases of the snatch, outlining each phase's duration from the
barbell lift-off to the standing position with fully extended hips and knees, highlighting the movements and
position (11,14,15)
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Figure 1. Displays the different lift phases of the snatch. First the power snatch where the hip joint is higher
in relation to the squat snatch (picture 6) where the hip joint is lower in relation to the knee joint in the catch
position. This is the point where the rising starts to fully standing up with locked out hip and knees in both
variations.
Programming power snatch over squat snatch might enhance speed and power
development, is easier to learn, requires less mobility, and seems to reduces injury
risk. Research shows it effectively improves explosive strength and athletic
performance in less time, benefiting athletes when training time availability is
limited(16). To ensure the effects of training on changes in the individual athletes’
lifting technique measuring barbell kinematics is of large interest for a weightlifting
coach during practice and competition. As a way of differentiating between real
training effects and just small insignificant in-session variability, an in-session
experiment with a test-retest approach can be taken to estimate the level of variability
in the kinematics if the barbell (17–19).
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approach to technique along with Newtonian feedback. Hence this feedback method
is most likely what is best suited for the athletes. That holds especially true in a
complex lift such as the snatch (1,5,21).
While an experienced coaches’ eye will most of the time be the primary tool although
adding different ways of explaining to an athlete their better and less-developed points,
especially through objective ways can be crucial for certain personalities (25,26). The
coach in charge of data collection perceived the athletes’ to be motivated by the
intervention and was of the opinion that regardless of the usefulness of the data that
projects like these can elevate the motivation and commitment of both the coaching staff
and athletes.
Since when testing a true 1RM form breakdown is almost inevitable. This could for
example manifest itself in a rounding of the lumbar or rising of the hips, dependant if
the lower back or the legs are underdeveloped (22,23). A key performance indicator of
the snatch is the acceleration of the barbell in primarily the second pull. This
underscores the importance of individualized coaching strategies based on detailed
biomechanical analysis (22,24,25).
Initial contact with the weightlifting club: Club Haltérophile Luxovien was by email
where a short form of the project plan was displayed. The coaches’ agreed to the
cooperation and had use of the knowledge about force production and expenditure
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both in their day-to-day programming and technical coaching. The method was
discussed and agreed upon based on the resources available at the weightlifting club’s
facilities. After considerations and discussion with the on-site staff and mentor via
video calls the decision to take a kinematic video analysis approach was established.
This method was assessed to be best suited for this work. This was based on the cost
effectiveness, staff requirements, athlete burden and logistics together with its validity
and reliability in previous research (14,24,26–28). The data collection was conducted
during a post-competition week with the power snatch and squat snatch variations
divided into different days. Power snatch collection on the Tuesday and squat snatch
data collection on the Thursday. This to ensure there was no post-activation
potentiation nor primed movement neurological pathways/patterns (29,30)
Two cameras were placed 2 meters away from the centre of the lifter. Camera 1 was
used to capture the data of the barbell and later used to calculate force expenditure of
the lifter to move the bar via the use of the potential energy formula (potential energy
= mgh). Camera 2 was placed directly in front of the lifter and used to validate the
data from camera 1 (figure 3).
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Figure 3: shows the dual-camera setup used for capturing kinematic data during power snatch and squat
snatch exercises, with Camera 1 positioned at a 45-degree angle to track barbell trajectory and calculate
force expenditure, and Camera 2 positioned directly in front to validate data and ensure accurate recording
of lift phases and joint angles.
This enabled the study providing insights into each lift phase’s biomechanical
parameters. After the test days, the video footage was analysed using Kinovea
(version 0.8.15), a motion analysis software. Kinovea allowed for tracking of the
barbell and lifters’ body movements. Key frames were notated to capture the phases
of each lift. The first pull, transition, second pull, turnover, and the rising phase. This
facilitated the extraction of kinematic data, including barbell trajectory and lifter joint
angles. An Excel document was created to organize and analyse the data. The Excel
sheet included columns for each key parameter: displacement, time, velocity, force,
and power. Formulas were applied to compute these parameters based on the tracked
data of the barbell. the force was calculated using the formula for potential energy.
Power was derived from the product of force and velocity and velocity profiles were
calculated from the displacement and time data.
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The analysis was conducted at three different intensity levels: 60%, 70%, and 80% of
the athletes’ best competition lift in the snatch. Same weight was used for both the
squat snatch and power snatch. These percentages were chosen to represent
submaximal loads that are commonly used in training together with how the different
load might the lifters output (31). The data for each lifter were split into these intensity
levels, allowing for a comparison of their performance across multiple loads. Each
lifter’s force, power, and velocity profiles were then compared to identify strengths
and weaknesses in their technique. For example, lifters with higher power outputs in
the second pull phase were noted for their effective acceleration, while those with
lower outputs were identified as needing more focus on this aspect of the lift. This
provided insights into athlete individual needs and potential areas for technical
improvement (27).
Reflecting on this project, the collaboration with Club Haltérophile Luxovien was
highly effective. The coaches’ willingness to integrate scientific methods into their
training regimen played a crucial role in the project's success. One of the main
challenges was ensuring the athletes' consistent performance during data collection,
which was mitigated by scheduling sessions during a post-competition week to
reduce variability due to fatigue or peak performance periods (32,33). Since the data
was gathered from distance the cooperation with the on-site staff was a key part to
make this project possible. However, the use of coaches as test supervisor does bring
some uncertainty to the results as supervisors’ effect on the test performance has been
well documented (34).
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testing a true 1RM form breakdown is almost inevitable. A key performance indicator
of the snatch is the acceleration of the barbell in primarily the second pull, as shown in
the appendices. These findings underscore the importance of individualized coaching
strategies based on detailed biomechanical analysis (22,24,25).
One of the most successful aspects of the project was the engagement of both athletes
and coaches. The objective data provided some new insights into individual
performance and could be motivating for both coaches and athletes to refine their
techniques. If starting again, I would allocate more time for preliminary trials to fine-
tune the data collection setup and address any technical issues beforehand.
Additionally, increasing the sample size to include a broader range of lifters with
varying levels of experience could provide more comprehensive insights and enhance
the generalizability of these findings. As for now the result of this project can only be
used on this specific weightlifting club.
Overall, this project highlighted the importance of integrating scientific research with
practical coaching. The findings supported the coaches' understanding of individual
lifters' habits and traits and provided valuable insights into optimizing training
regimens. Future studies should continue exploring the relationship between
biomechanical parameters and weightlifting performance, looking in to advances in
technology to further enhance our understanding of this sport. By reflecting on the
project's successes and challenges, it is clear that combining scientific analysis with
practical application could significantly enhance training efficacy. Engaging coaches
and athletes in the data collection process ensured that the findings were directly
applicable to their training programs, thereby maximizing the practical impact of the
research. But at the cost of possibility of cross population generalization. Future
research should aim to refine these methods further, incorporating more precise
technology and addressing any remaining ambiguities to provide even a clearer
guidance for weightlifting coaching (1,21,36–39)
5 Take-home messages
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• Training Optimization: The data on force, power, and velocity profiles can be
used to optimize training regimens, particularly by focusing on improving
specific phases of the snatch where lifters have weaknesses.
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6 References
1. Ho LKW, Lorenzen C, Wilson CJ, Saunders JE, Williams MD. Reviewing
current knowledge in snatch performance and technique: The need for future directions
in applied research. J Strength Cond Res. 2014;28(2):574–86.
2. Stone MH, Sands WA, Pierce KC, Carlock J, Cardinale M, Newton RU.
Relationship of maximum strength to weightlifting performance. Med Sci Sports Exerc.
2005 Jun;37(6):1037–43.
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15. Nagatani T, Kendall KL, Guppy SN, Poon WCK, Haff GG. Effect of 3
Different Set Configurations on Kinematic Variables and Internal Loads During a
Power Snatch Session. J Strength Cond Res. 2023 Oct 1;37(10):1929–38.
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20. Whitehead PN, Schilling BK, Stone MH, Kilgore JL, Chiu LZF. Snatch
technique of United States national level weightlifters. J Strength Cond Res.
2014;28(3):587–91.
22. Halperin I, Aboodarda SJ, Behm DG. Knee extension fatigue attenuates
repeated force production of the elbow flexors. Eur J Sport Sci [Internet]. 2014 Nov 17
[cited 2024 May 17];14(8):823–9. Available from:
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/17461391.2014.911355
24. Suchomel TJ, Wright GA, Kernozek TW, Kline DE. Kinetic comparison
of the power development between power clean variations. J Strength Cond Res
[Internet]. 2014 [cited 2024 May 17];28(2):350–60. Available from:
https://journals.lww.com/nsca-
jscr/fulltext/2014/02000/kinetic_comparison_of_the_power_development.7.aspx
26. Chiu LZF, Schilling BK. A Primer on Weightlifting: From Sport to Sports
Training [Internet]. Vol. 27, © National Strength and Conditioning Association. 2005.
Available from: http://journals.lww.com/nsca-scj
29. Cunanan AJ, Guy Hornsby W, South MA, Ushakova KP, Mizuguchi S,
Sato K, et al. Survey of Barbell Trajectory and Kinematics of the Snatch Lift from the
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2015 World and 2017 Pan-American Weightlifting Championships. Sports 2020, Vol 8,
Page 118 [Internet]. 2020 Aug 25 [cited 2024 May 7];8(9):118. Available from:
https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4663/8/9/118/htm
30. Mulqueen D, Crosland KA, Novotny MA. Using video modeling and
video feedback to improve olympic weightlifting technique. Behavior Analysis:
Research and Practice. 2021 Aug;21(3):282–92.
37. Tnønessen E, Sylta Ø, Haugen TA, Hem E, Svendsen IS, Seiler S. The
road to gold: Training and peaking characteristics in the year prior to a gold medal
endurance performance. PLoS One. 2014 Jul 14;9(7).
38. Guyatt GH, Pugsley SO, Sullivan MJ, Thompson PJ, Berman LB, Jones
NL, et al. Effect of encouragement on walking test performance. Thorax [Internet]. 1984
Nov 1 [cited 2024 May 20];39(11):818–22. Available from:
https://thorax.bmj.com/content/39/11/818
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40. Nagatani T, Haff GG, Guppy SN, Poon W, Kendall KL. Effect of different
set configurations on barbell trajectories during the power snatch. Int J Sports Sci Coach.
2023 Oct 1;18(5):1594–604.
41. Hicks DS, Drummond C, Williams KJ, Pickering C, Van Den Tillaar R.
Individualization of Training Based on Sprint Force-Velocity Profiles: A Conceptual
Framework for Biomechanical and Technical Training Recommendations. Strength
Cond J [Internet]. 2023 Dec 1 [cited 2024 May 20];45(6):711–25. Available from:
https://journals.lww.com/nsca-
scj/fulltext/2023/12000/individualization_of_training_based_on_sprint.7.aspx
42. Schutts KS, Wu WFW, Vidal AD, Hiegel J, Becker J. Does focus of
attention improve snatch lift kinematics? J Strength Cond Res. 2017 Oct 1;31(10):2758–
64.
44. Ang CL, Kong PW. Field-Based Biomechanical Assessment of the Snatch
in Olympic Weightlifting Using Wearable In-Shoe Sensors and Videos—A Preliminary
Report. Sensors. 2023 Feb 1;23(3).
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7 Appendices
7.1 Coach feedback
Power produced calculated in w/kg-BW, shows how much mean power each lifter
generates. Greater is better. Male lifters
Power produced calculated in w/kg-BW, shows how much mean power each lifter
generates. Greater is better. Female lifters
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7.2 Lifter 1
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The velocity curve of lifter 1 is consistent throughout the power and squat variations
and different percentage loading. The velocity increase in the first 3 phases intel’s a
smooth movement allowing the lifter to move under the barbell and catch heavier
lifts. The consistency in velocity proves a refined movement. The power output in the
transition phase is elevated in comparison with the subject group in all lifts which is a
beneficial trait for successful snatch attempts. The power increase from the transition
to the second pull is not as great as the velocity increase which could be a result of a
shorter second pull in relation to the transition phase whilst a longer second pull
seems to be better for performance. (18,23)
7.3 Lifter 2
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Lifter 2 increases the velocity in the first pull of the snatch at the 80% lifts on both
variations. This intel’s, contrary to lifter 1, an unrefined movement with technique at
lower weights carrying over to heavy lifts. The higher tempo in heavier lifts could be a
result of many factors needing attention. A recommendation for this lifter is to always
be consistent in the timings of all the phases.
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Tnønessen E, Sylta Ø, Haugen TA, Hem E, Svendsen IS, Seiler S. The road to gold:
Training and peaking characteristics in the year prior to a gold medal endurance
performance. PLoS One. 2014 Jul 14;9(7).
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7.4 Lifter 3
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7.5 Lifter 4
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Lifter 4 has lower power output compared to force output in the first pull which
indicates a long first pull. This phase should not be extended to be efficient with the
snatch variations. The power patterning at 60% squat snatch and 60% power snatch is
not consistent. In the power snatch the transition phase power production is a
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significant outlier whilst in the squat snatch it is close to group mean. At lighter weights
these inconsistencies should not occur hence this lifter needs to work on patterning the
movements and building a similar power and squat snatch technique.
Excessive power production in the turnover is only needed when the second pull
has not directed and moved the bar close to the end receiving position. Utilizing a
longer and more powerful second pull could make this lifter more efficient.
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7.6 Lifter 5
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Lifter 5 The velocity in the first pull is high relative to the subject group in lighter lifts.
Power production curve between the squat and power variations are similar and
follows the subject group mean. This lifter should work on the first pull, completing a
solid patterning for both variations of the snatch.
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7.7 Lifter 6
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Looking at the turnover phase lifter 6’s force production seems to be lacking at heavier
weight. This might be to an inconsistency when ending the pull under the bar and
attempting to jump under and catch to early. This could be a technical error as well as
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a mental problem when the weight feels heavier. The other phases of the snatch follows
the mean. (Källa)
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7.8 Lifter 7
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Lifter 7 Accelerates the bar through the first three lift phases and the power
patterning is more efficient than the subject group. The higher power output in the
transition and the second pull is beneficial for successful lifts. This especially occurs in
heavier lifts where it is needed the most. The velocity of the turnover is higher than
mean although it produces less power. This is a trait of technical lifters who catches the
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bar close to its highest point. This lifter might benefit from a focus of force production
in training to be able to more and accelerate heavier loads. (Källa).
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7.9 Lifter 8
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Lifter 8 shows some tendencies to have a slower second pull and turnover than the
mean, this athlete could have some benefit from rate of force development training. The
other phases seem to be following the mean value. The clear increase in power and
velocity during the first 3 phases are indicative of consistent lift efficiency.
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7.10 Lifter 9
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Lifter 9 Follows the mean patterning of the snatch phases in both variations along
with an added power output in the second pull which is a key phase for successful lifts.
This could be supplemented with practicing the transition phase to further increase
snatch performance.
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7.11 Lifter 10
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Lifter 10 appears to be a balanced lifter not deviating from the mean power, force or
velocity significantly in any phase. This lifter might benefit from training general
weightlifting training to increase efficiency and consistency further. (Källa)
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7.12 Lifter 11
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Lifter 11 Has a higher than mean velocity while producing a lower than mean power
in the transition phase. This might be due to a shorter than optimal transition phase.
The recommendation would be to practise this phase along with regular weightlifting
training.
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