Comparison of snatch performance and barbell trajectory in elite weightlifters according to bodyweight categories

This study was to compare the kinetic and kinematic differences in the snatch performances and barbell trajectory of the elite weightlifters. Two synchronized cameras recorded successful snatch performances during the 2010 World Weightlifting Championships. Weightlifters were separated into three bodyweight categories (BWCs) light weight (LWC), middle weight (MWC), and heavy weight (HWC). All performances were analysed using the Ariel Performance Analysis System. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used for normality. A one-way ANOVA and Bonferroni correction post hoc test were used to determine group and subgroup differences. Relative barbell mass significantly decreased as the BWCs increased. Lower extremity angular movements showed similar performance outcomes in BWCs. As the BWCs increased, the barbell heights at the end of the first and second pulls significantly increased, and similarly, the maximum barbell height increased. There were no statistically significant differences in the horizontal movement of the barbell in all BWCs. In addition, the LWC lifted more heavy relative barbell mass than other WCs. Besides, HWC performed less relative power than others in the second pull. Consequently, lower barbell height and higher power output during the second pull might be clues for successfully lifting higher weights in the snatch technique.