An Analysis of Ascent And Descent Velocity of The Lifter And Barbell During A Clean

Abstract

Research has shown that barbell velocity plays a critical role in successful lifting, and is highest during the second pull phase of a clean. PURPOSE:The purpose of this study was to determine the ascent and descent velocity of both the barbell and lifter during a clean. METHODS: Eight competitive weightlifters (7 men, 1 woman; mean ± SD: age, 24.88 ± 1.36 years; body mass, 86.58 ± 14.75 kg; height, 178.28 ± 9.75 cm) participated in this two-day study. On day one, participants performed a brief warm-up, then established a 1-repetition maximum (1RM) in the clean (mean ± SD: 103.38 ± 23.59 kg). On the second day, one week later, participants did the same warm-up as day one. They then performed 3 cleans at 85% of their 1RM, resting 1 minute between repetitions. Three velocity transducers were used (1 on either end of the barbell, and 1 attached to the lifter at hip level with a weight belt). RESULTS: Descriptive results (mean ± SD) revealed peak bar ascent velocity, 1.88 ± .06 m/s; peak bar descent velocity, -1.22 ± .26 m/s; peak human ascent velocity, .76 ± .24 m/s; and peak human descent velocity, -1.40 ± .13 m/s. CONCLUSIONS: These results show that the barbell reached its maximum velocity during the ascent but was slower during the descent. The lifter, however, had a much slower ascent during the initial pull from the floor, and then rapidly increased velocity as they descended under the barbell. Interestingly, the lifter traveled at a higher velocity under the barbell then the barbell itself during the descent. Establishing data on these velocities may be useful to coaches who are working with athletes to develop maximal speed during different phases of the clean.