Testing And Training Considerations For Kettlebell Sport – Snatch

Abstract

This study is aimed to analyze and understand the testing protocols and training considerations for kettlebell sports. The focal point of this article is kettlebell snatch. Although the popularity of kettlebells is increasing, fewer facts are known ⁶ about kettlebell testing protocols and training methodologies. The sport consists of three main lifts—the snatch, jerk and long cycle. A kettlebell snatch involves continuously swinging the kettlebell between the legs by extending the hips, knees, and ankles and using the momentum to take the kettlebell overhead ⁶. It is generally performed for multiple repetitions with only one hand change. It is performed in a biathlon or as a standalone event in Girevoy competitions.  The long cycle consists of 10 minutes ⁸ of clean & jerk, where the bells are cleaned from knee level to chest and then jerked overhead.  It can be done with one or two kettlebells. Jerk is performed by grasping two kettlebells in each hand, swinging to the rack position at chest level, and then jerking above the head.  A judge determines if the repetitions are performed correctly and allocates a point accordingly. Kettlebell lifting is a highly technical sport ^6,8 that involves the technicality of snatch, clean, and jerk. For a person to compete at the national/international level, strength and aerobic capacity with explosiveness are imperative. To improve performance, it is prudent to focus on complex training, an essential aspect of post-activation potentiation. Needs analysis based on biomechanics and injury epidemiology is discussed in this article. Individual athlete assessment is necessary. Mobility must be prioritised to prevent injury, as kettlebell moves are highly ballistic. ¹