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Olympic WeightliftingintermediateBarbell

Power Snatch from Blocks

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

Power Snatch from Blocks demonstration

Power Snatch from Blocks, starting position
Power Snatch from Blocks, starting position
Power Snatch from Blocks, finishing position
Power Snatch from Blocks, finishing position

How to Perform

  1. 1Begin with a loaded barbell on boxes or stands of the desired height. 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, with the elbows pointed out. This will be the starting position.
  2. 2Begin the first pull by driving through the front of the heels, raising the bar from the boxes.
  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, forcefully pull yourself below the bar as you elevate the bar overhead. The feet should move to just outside the hips, turned out as necessary. Receive the bar above a full squat and with the arms fully extended overhead.
  5. 5Keeping the bar aligned over the front of the heels, your head and chest up, drive through heels of the feet to move to a standing position. Carefully return the weight to the boxes.

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
QuadricepsCalvesForearmsGlutesHamstringsLower BackShouldersTrapsTriceps

Exercise Details

Category
Olympic Weightlifting
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Level
intermediate

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Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does Power Snatch from Blocks work?

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

What equipment do I need for Power Snatch from Blocks?

Power Snatch from Blocks requires Barbell.

Is Power Snatch from Blocks suitable for beginners?

Power Snatch from Blocks is classified as intermediate level. Beginners should master foundational movements first.

Alternatives to Power Snatch from Blocks

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