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Olympic WeightliftingexpertBarbell

Power Snatch

Primary
Hamstrings
Secondary
Calves, Glutes, Lower Back, Quadriceps, Shoulders, Traps, Triceps
Equipment
Barbell
Level
expert

Power Snatch demonstration

Power Snatch, starting position
Power Snatch, starting position
Power Snatch, finishing position
Power Snatch, finishing position

How to Perform

  1. 1Begin with a loaded barbell on the floor. The bar should be close to or touching the shins, and a wide grip should be taken on the bar. The feet should be directly below the hips, with the feet turned out as needed. Lower the hips, with the chest up and the head looking forward. The shoulders should be just in front of the bar. This will be the starting position.
  2. 2Begin the first pull by driving through the front of the heels, raising the bar from the ground. The back angle should stay the same until the bar passes the knees.
  3. 3Transition into the second pull by extending through the hips knees and ankles, driving the bar up as quickly as possible. The bar should be close to the body. At peak extension, shrug the shoulders and allow the elbows to flex to the side.
  4. 4As you move your feet into the receiving position, a slightly wider position, pull yourself below the bar as you elevate the bar overhead. The bar should be received in a partial squat. Continue raising the bar to the overhead position, receiving the bar locked out overhead.
  5. 5Return to a standing position with the weight over head.

Video Tutorial

Tips & Common Mistakes

  • •Focus on controlled movements rather than speed or momentum
  • •Maintain proper breathing - exhale during the exertion phase
  • •Start with lighter weight to master the form before progressing
  • •As a compound movement, this exercise works multiple muscle groups efficiently

Muscles Worked

Front
Back
HamstringsCalvesGlutesLower BackQuadricepsShouldersTrapsTriceps

Exercise Details

Category
Olympic Weightlifting
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Level
expert

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Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does Power Snatch work?

Power Snatch primarily targets the Hamstrings. It also works the Calves, Glutes, Lower Back, Quadriceps, Shoulders, Traps, Triceps as secondary muscles.

What equipment do I need for Power Snatch?

Power Snatch requires Barbell.

Is Power Snatch suitable for beginners?

Power Snatch is classified as expert level. Beginners should master foundational movements first.

Alternatives to Power Snatch

Substitute any of these when the equipment is taken or unavailable. They train the same primary muscles.