A Preliminary Investigation of the Relationship of Three Key Bar Positions on Weightlifting Performance

Abstract

Background: There are three fundamental bar positions in weightlifting: 1) Set-up (S), 2) Knee (K), and 3) Power Position (P). Commonly, these positions are evaluated using a clean-grip isometric pull. Purpose: To compare and describe relationships between the three bar positions in an isometric pull and with meet performance in regional to international level weightlifters. Methods: Male (n=6) and female (n=6) weightlifters (age 19-23 yrs.) volunteered. Males were better weightlifters than the females. Pulls were performed from top-down (P - K - S). Isometric peak force (IPF) and rate of force development 0-250ms (RFD250) were derived from force-time curve analysis. A 2x3 mixed ANOVA was used to assess the effects of sex and position. Pearson correlations established relationships. Results: Males produced greater values (both absolute and relative) than females at all positions (p ≤ 0.05). IPF, IPFa and RFD250 at P were greater (p ≤ 0.05) than the other two positions. IPF and IPFa from S and K were similar. Correlations with performance were moderate to strong for absolute and scaled conditions; correlations were generally weaker for females. Correlations for IPF were stronger at S than P. RFD250 correlations were generally stronger at P. Conclusion: Metrics from S and P correlate better with performance than K, with IPF and IPFa favoring S while RFD250 favors P. Both positions seem to be viable options for monitoring weightlifters. Results indicate males and females may produce different relationships, perhaps indicating weakness at specific positions.