Modeling record scores in the snatch and its variations in the long-term training of young weightlifters

Abstract

The primary aim of the current study was to determine the time curves of changes in the record scores in the snatch and its variations during a two-year training cycle in young weightlifters. This study also aimed at assessing the ratios between these scores and at predicting the snatch record scores at the end of the subsequent annual training macrocycle. The final purpose was to compare the record scores with the isometric peak torque values of the trunk and knee extensors. The study involved 16 weightlifters who were tested seven times at three-month intervals. The overall mean ratios of the record scores in the hang snatch to those in the snatch and the record scores in the hang power snatch to those in the snatch were approximately constant and amounted to 0.95 and 0.79, respectively. The overall mean ratio between the scores in the power snatch to those in the snatch was approximately 0.88. Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) between the individual time trajectories of record scores in the snatch and its derivatives were identified in two consecutive annual training macrocycles. The error in predicting record results at the end of the following annual training macrocycle was 6.7 ± 4.7% or 8.1 ± 3.4% depending on the way the measurement data were modeled. The results of the study also indicate that the measurements of the isometric peak torque of the trunk extensors performed in laboratory conditions can be useful in diagnosing the strength capacity of young weightlifters.

Modelling Front and Back Squat Record Scores in Long-Term Training of Young Weightlifters

“…When analysing the results obtained, it is important to mention certain limitations that may have affected the quality of the conclusions drawn from the research. These limitations were described in our previous work [26,31]. It should additionally be noted that the record scores in this study were expressed in kilograms, in contrast to the Sinclair points used in the cited papers.…”

“…The results of the calculations showed that it was possible to achieve this goal using an individual growth curve approach. The second-degree polynomial provided sufficient approximation accuracy, as in our previous analyses of record scores in the snatch [26] and the clean [31]. However, it is worth noting that this approximation method was applied for two training macrocycles.…”

“…The subjects and research methodology were described in detail in our previous work [26]. Briefly, 17 young weightlifters with at least one year of training experience participated in the study.…”

“…Long-term analysis of record scores in selected exercises is essential, both from the sporting perspective as well as the adaptive changes occurring in young athletes under the influence of strength training [26,27]. In strength training itself, the correct selection and distribution of loads to increase the athletes' exercise capacity is of primary importance [28].…”

“…With the above in mind, the main aim of this study was to create a statistical model and identify with it the time courses of The preparation of the long format measurement data, the derivation of the regression equations, and the inclusion of the time-independent co-variable (TIC) in these equations were described in detail in our previous work [26,31]. However, to facilitate the interpretation of the results obtained, it should be mentioned that the time of the first measurement session was coded as time = 0, the interval between measurements was 0.25 (one quarter), the TIC was defined as the grand-mean cantered initial age of a participant, and the final, most expanded regression equation took the form: (1) record scores in the front squat and back squat in young weightlifters over a two-year training cycle.…”