Choosing the Optimal Snatch Trajectories for Different Barbell Weights

The optimal barbell trajectories for snatch weightlifting have been achieved empirically by severalresearchers and they have suggested three optimal barbell trajectories (type A, B, and C). But, there is a conflict forintroducing the best trajectory among them. One reason is this idea that the selected criterion used by previousresearchers might not be appropriate. Therefore we used a biomechanical model based on inverse dynamic approach toevaluate each trajectory while considering two specific mechanical criteria. We achieved the optimal motion of eachtrajectory that minimized the actuating torques or power consumption by using inverse kinematic and dynamicprogramming approaches. The results show that the pattern type C is the best trajectory for all barbell weights whileminimizing the actuating torques, but the results suggest different optimal patterns while considering the powerconsumption. These optimal patterns are depend on barbell weights. Since this method evaluates each trajectoryclearly, it is an appropriate tool for coaches to examine several trajectories for making a good decision.

Keywords:

Sport biomechanics , weightlifting , simulation , dynamic programming