BASIC PERFORMANCE CUES FOR TEACHING THE SNATCH AND CLEAN TO NON-OLYMPIC WEIGHTLIFTING ATHLETES

Abstract

The intent of this article is to introduce the basic tenets of performing the movements of Olympic Weightlifting. Precise performance of these exercises requires a multitude of physical qualities coordinated at very high rates of speed. Through my experience, many strength and conditioning coaches throughout the world utilize these lifts or their derivatives for enhancing the overall productivity of athletes under their charge. These exercises are traditionally based in the strength and power sports, but these exercises have been used with athletes who participate in endurance activities as well with very good results. Most competitive activities will have some aspect of power which can be enhanced by applying the Snatch and/or Clean in the training regimes. The movements are very similar in their performance; the main differences being final resultant bar accelerations and velocities, hand spacing and where the bar is fixed in relation to the body at the completion of the movement. The following is a brief synopsis of the main coaching points to teach athletes at the onset of applying these movements into the training sessions.