Elite Weightlifters Research Articles

The Biomechanical differences in maximum snatch weight between elite and sub-elite weightlifters: A one-dimensional statistical parameter mapping study

Background: Current research primarily relies on discrete data collected at specific time points to analyze the weightlifting process, often overlooking the impact of continuous temporal changes on athletic performance. Purpose: This study aimed to quantitatively analyze the one-dimensional kinematic patterns of maximum snatch weight actions in elite and sub-elite weightlifters using statistical parameter mapping (SPM). It explores kinematic differences in snatch actions between elite and sub-elite weightlifters, which assists in summarizing the technical characteristics of elite athletes. Methods: Two cameras recorded three successful maximum snatch attempts of 10 elite and 10 sub-elite weightlifters at the World Weightlifting Championships and Chinese Olympic selection competitions. Simi Motion 10.2 was used for kinematic analysis. SPM was employed for comparative analysis of snatch kinematics among different levels of weightlifters, and independent sample t-tests were used for phase duration proportions. Results: Elite weightlifters showed significant advantages in multiple movement phases: smaller knee joint angles in M1 phase (p < 0.001, 35.82%–78.45%) and M3 phases (p = 0.047, 17.47%–24.74%; p = 0.036, 30.92%–49.38%; p = 0.040, 50.93%–65.85%); lower vertical body center of gravity (COG) height in M1 phase (p = 0.019, 0.00%–51.08%), M3 phase (p = 0.046, 48.27%–100.00%), and M5 phase (p = 0.045, 38.49%–59.54%); closer displacement between barbell COG and body COG in M1 phase (p = 0.006, 0%–38.18%; p = 0.048, 43.91%–48.94%) and M2 phase (p = 0.026, 0%–100%); greater barbell acceleration in M5 phase (p < 0.001, 0%–94.61%); and slower barbell descent speed in M6 phase (p = 0.001, 0%–30.58%; p = 0.046, 44.57%–51.37%; p = 0.048, 67.16%–72.41%). Moreover, elite weightlifters exhibited significantly higher phase duration proportions in M1 phase (p = 0.034, d = 1.03) than sub-elite weightlifters. Conclusion: Elite weightlifters demonstrated longer distance and time exerting work on the barbell in M1 phase, less energy consumption in barbell ascent in M2 phase, and greater upward power gain for the barbell in M1 and M3 phases. They showed faster squat-to-barbell catching speed in M4 phase and excellent braking and precise squat-to-barbell catching capabilities in M5 and M6 phases.

Diaphragm Function in Elite Weightlifters With and Without Chronic Low Back Pain and its Impacts on Sports Performance.

Zhou, EFM, Wong, AYL, Peng, J, Lin, G, Wen, T, Fang, J, Zhou, C, and Fu, SN. Diaphragm function in elite weightlifters with and without chronic low back pain and its impacts on sports performance. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2024-The aim of this study was to compare diaphragm function between elite weightlifters with and without chronic low back pain (LBP) and to explore the associations between diaphragm function and sports performance. Forty-nine elite weightlifters aged 16-26 years were recruited, including 29 women (16-25 years, mean ± SD = 19.93 ± 2.70 years) and 20 men (16-26 years, mean ± SD = 20.95 ± 2.68 years). Of these, 23 subjects had chronic LBP. Diaphragm thickness and excursion were assessed using ultrasonography, and maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), measured with POWERbreathe KH2, served as indicators of diaphragm contractility and strength, respectively. Sports performance was gauged through maximal snatch and clean and jerk lifts. Group differences and performance correlations were analyzed with consideration for confounders. The significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Weightlifters with chronic LBP demonstrated significantly lower diaphragmatic contractility: diaphragm thickening fraction (by 21%; mean difference [MD] = 0.09, p = 0.04, Cohen's d = 0.69) and diaphragm excursion (by 18%; MD = 0.99, p < 0.01, Cohen's d = 0.89) compared with non-LBP controls. In addition, MIP was positively related to snatch (r = 0.34, p = 0.02) and clean and jerk (r = 0.43, p < 0.01) lifts. This study revealed that elite weightlifters with chronic LBP exhibit reduced diaphragm contractility, and inspiratory muscle force output (primary diaphragm) was associated with lifting performance. Incorporating diaphragm strengthening into training and rehabilitation might enhance performance and aid in LBP management, offering a dual benefit for athletes.

Foot Kinematics of Elite Female 59 kg Weightlifters in the 2018–2021 World Championships

Background/Objectives: Research on elite weightlifting performance is crucial for understanding the underlying attributes of efficient techniques. This study aimed to analyze the foot characteristics of elite female weightlifters in the 59 kg category during the snatch. Methods: Publicly available videos from the International Weightlifting Federation World Weightlifting Championships (2018–2021) were analyzed. Excluding the 2020 competition due to the COVID-19 pandemic and more unsuccessful attempts, a total of 20 videos were selected for kinematic analysis using Kenova video analysis software. Variables included the horizontal foot distance in the start and catch phases, horizontal displacement of sideway leg separation, and maximum vertical heel height of each foot. Results: The results revealed small to moderate significant negative correlations between snatch performance and maximum heel height (right: r = −0.28, p &lt; 0.05; left: r = −0.332 p &lt; 0.01). Snatch performance also demonstrated a small to moderate negative correlation with sideway leg separation and foot distance in the catch phase (r = −0.275, p &lt; 0.01; r = −0.467, p &lt; 0.01, respectively). Maximum heel height exhibited a very strong positive correlation between feet (r = 0.853, p &lt; 0.01). Conclusions: A relatively narrower stance was found to be more beneficial for elite weightlifter performance. Strong coordination suggests advanced movement strategies in this complex lift. These findings contribute to the existing knowledge on weightlifting techniques and offer valuable insights for athletes and coaches seeking to improve performance in competitive environments.

Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on Japanese young elite weightlifting competitive athletes.

Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on Japanese young elite weightlifting competitive athletes.

Comparative Analysis of the Kinematic Characteristics of Lunge-Style and Squat-Style Jerk Techniques in Elite Weightlifters.

This study aimed to discuss the differences in technical characteristics between the lunge-style and squat-style jerk techniques and to reveal the adaptability of these techniques for individual weightlifters. A total of 52 attempts by 32 male weightlifters were selected, and the video data were digitized manually using the SIMI Motion 7.50 three-dimensional analysis system. The technical characteristics of the lunge split and squat jerk were fundamentally consistent during the pre-squat, force exertion, and inertia ascent phases. The primary differences between the lunge split and squat jerk techniques were observed during the squatting and support phases, including the vertical descent velocity of the barbell at the end of the squat shoulder-locking phase and the stability angles in the sagittal and coronal axes. The vertical velocity of the barbell at the end of the squat shoulder-locking phase was significantly greater in the squat style (-0.41 ± 0.17 vs. -0.88 ± 0.14) compared to the lunge style (t = 6.393, p < 0.05). The stability angle on the sagittal axis at the end of the squat-supporting phase in the lunge style was significantly greater (46.99 ± 3.23 vs. 13.64 ± 0.51) than that of the squat style (t = 45.639, p < 0.05).

Biomechanical analysis of the snatch technique for elite and varsity weightlifters

Understanding the importance of movement asymmetries and variations in technique proficiency across different level of weightlifters is crucial. The purpose of this study was to examine differences in joint kinematics, muscle activation, and barbell parameters between elite and varsity weightlifters during the snatch utilizing integrated 3D motion capture and EMG systems. In addition, it analyzes symmetries in joint kinematics and muscle activation in both groups. Ten female participants, comprising 5 elite and 5 varsity weightlifters, along with thirteen male participants, consisting of 6 elite and 7 varsity weightlifters during snatch were measured. Several asymmetries in posture and muscle activation were identified in both elite and varsity weightlifters. In addition, elite weightlifters exhibited significantly more flexed knees than varsity counterparts (p < 0.05) at the conclusion of the second pull and at the highest position of the barbell. Furthermore, significantly lower activity in gluteus maximus was detected in elite weightlifter at the highest point of the barbell than in the varsity groups (p < 0.05). Moreover, elite males achieved a lower maximum height for the barbell compared to varsity males (p = 0.006). Furthermore, elite females demonstrated less horizontal displacement (D2x) (p = 0.005) than varsity counterparts. Varsity women presented significantly lower horizontal velocity (p = 0.003) at the conclusion of the second pull than varsity counterparts. Despite several asymmetries detected, those may not be critical factors in achieving a successful snatch lift, given that all weightlifters successfully completed the lift. However, variations in posture and muscle activation may still be associated with improvements in technique proficiency across different levels of weightlifters.

The effects of anti-doping measures on sports performance in weightlifting

ABSTRACT Background Evaluating anti-doping measures is essential to optimise their effectiveness. Comparing sporting results that have a higher doping prevalence, such as weightlifting, before and after the implementation of anti-doping measures may serve as an effectiveness indicator. Methods The results of the most successful weightlifters of both sexes in two time periods, 2009–2015 and 2016–2022 were analysed. The Sinclair Total (ST) to compare the relative strength of weightlifters from different weight categories was calculated. Results A significant decrease in the ST during 2016–2022 (p < 0.001) in athletes of all ages and both sexes overall was reported. When analysed by age, there was a decrease in ST in juniors and seniors of both sexes (p = 0.010 and p < 0.001, respectively), but not in youth. There was a decrease in the ST in senior men (p < 0.001), junior women (p < 0.001) and senior women (p < 0.001). Conclusion In elite weightlifting, adult athletic results declined during 2016–2022, which may partly be explained by the implementation of new methods to detect long-term anabolic androgenic steroid metabolites as well as other policies. This may highlight the effectiveness of these methods both in the prevention and detection of anti-doping rule violations.

Effects of Low-Load, High-Repetition Resistance Training on Maximum Muscle Strength and Muscle Damage in Elite Weightlifters: A Preliminary Study

This study aimed to assess the impact of different resistance training (RT) loads and repetition on muscle damage, intramuscular anabolic signaling, and maximal muscle strength (MMS) in weightlifters. Eighteen male weightlifters were randomly assigned to 8 weeks of supervised RT regimes: high-load, low-repetition (HL), low-load, high-repetition (LH), and combination of HL and LH (COMBI). All groups exhibited a significant increase in skeletal muscle mass (SMM) and growth hormone levels, which ultimately contributed to improvement in MMS as indicated by 1-repetition maximum in the back squat and back muscle strength. Notably, while there were no significant changes in the mTOR protein, the phosphorylation of phosphorylation of p70 ribosomal protein S6 kinase 1 (p70S6K1), eukaryotic initiation factor 4E-binding protein 1 (4E-BP1), and eukaryotic elongation factor 2 (eEF2), which are involved in muscle cell growth, was significantly affected by the different training regimens. More importantly, LH-RT led to a significant reduction in muscle damage markers, creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), suggesting reduced recovery time and fatigue. Our results demonstrated that the LH-RT paradigm could be a viable alternative for weightlifters to enhance MMS and muscle hypertrophy similar to HL-RT, while reducing RT-induced muscle damage, ultimately contributing to the enhancement of exercise performance.

The comparison of the genetic profile of ACTN3 single-nucleotide polymorphism in elite weightlifters and non-athletes

Background and aims: The α-actinin-3 (ACTN3) gene plays a key role in muscle signaling pathways and sarcomere contraction. Iranian weightlifters are among the most successful world and Olympic champions. Therefore, the present study was performed to compare the genetic profile of the single-nucleotide polymorphism of the ACTN3 gene in elite Iranian male weightlifters vs. non-athletes. Methods: This cross-sectional study was of a qualitative-quantitative type. Subjects included 30 volunteer elite male weightlifters, including all of Iran’s premier league, members of the national team, Olympic, world, and Asian champions of Isfahan province, with a mean age of 21.77±7.11, the height of 179.87±6.98, and the weight of 96.87±22.73 (Mean±SD) versus 30 volunteers available healthy non-athletes who were the same in age, height, and weight as weightlifters. After completing the consent form and physical health measurement questionnaire, participants’ saliva samples were collected, and DNA was extracted accordingly. Genotypes were determined after performing the polymerase chain reaction via the Tetra-Arms method and electrophoresis. Data were analyzed by SPSS (version 20) and the chi-square test (P&lt;0.05). Results: The prevalence of the RR genotype in selected weightlifters (56.7%) was significantly higher than that of other genotypes (χ2=13.40, P=0.03). There was a significant difference in ACTN3 R/X genotype distribution (P=0.039, χ2=6.48) between weightlifters and non-athletes. Conclusion: A higher prevalence of the RR genotype of the ACTN3 gene in selected elite male weightlifters versus non-athletes can be likely considered for selecting genetically predisposed individuals.

An Analytical Study of Self-Talk (Cognitive and Motivational) in the Snatch, Clean, and Jerk Movements of Elite Weightlifters

The researchers stated that self-talk affects performance. According to researchers, it can be said that positive self-talk can improve performance and have a more positive impact on the results obtained. Therefore, the purpose of the study is to analyze the self-talk (cognitive and motivational) in the snatch, clean and jerk movements of elite weightlifters. This research is applied in terms of purposeful sampling and descriptive comparative in terms of data collection. The statistical population of the present study included adolescent weightlifters and adults. Eligible people who volunteered to participate in the study were selected through the virtual groups of this field. And they answered the self-talk questionnaire in sports by Zervas et al., (2007). To determine the sample size, the number of 5 to 10 times the questions, the statistical sample was selected. Multivariate variance analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were used to analyze the data in the research. The findings showed that cognitive and motivational self-talk was preferable in adult weightlifters than in adolescents. There is a significant difference between the self-talk of elite weightlifters based on the snatch, clean, and jerk movements. In general conclusion, it should be stated that to train a full-fledged athlete in this Olympic field, in addition to basic and strength training, psychological training such as self-talk training should be done for the athletes of this field.

Біодинаміка техніки поштовху штанги у важкоатлетів різної статі

The purpose of the study was to examine the biodynamics of the clean and jerk technique of the different gender athletes in weightlifting. Materials and methods. The following methods were used in the study: the study of scientific and methodological literature, Internet resources, pedagogical observations, video recordings of competitions, biomechanical analysis of the structure of the movement of the barbell, methods of mathematical statistics. More than 90 elite weightlifters participated in the research, in the conditions of competitive activity at the World, European and Ukrainian championships during the last ten years. Results and discussion. The analysis of the biodynamic characteristics of the barbell clean and jerk technique shows that the individual values of the force of interaction of athletes with the barbell in weightlifters of different genders and groups of weight categories have some differences: some of them increase with an increase in the body weight of athletes, others decrease, and some do not change, respectively. The biodynamic characteristics of the barbell clean and jerk in female weightlifters in terms of the force of interaction with the barbell have significant differences from the similar strength characteristics of male weightlifters. Tendencies were established to decrease simultaneously with the increase in weight categories of athletes in the magnitude of the force of interaction of athletes with the barbell at the limit moment between the phases of pre-acceleration and the transition phase, in the transition phase (in clean), in the phase of active braking and drive (in women in jerk). The level of force applied to the barbell in the phase of the catch in jerk does not change in all weight category groups of male athletes. A comparative analysis of the biodynamic components of the technique of performing the clean in the different gender weightlifters shows that they have significant differences in the level of manifestation of the force of interaction with the barbell. At the same time, female athletes have higher level of interaction with the barbell than male. Such a conclusion requires coaches to take into account these features during the development of biodynamic characteristics of the technique of performing competitive exercises by athletes of different genders and groups of weight categories, as well as during the process of improving the technique of motor actions. The analysis of the characteristics of the force of interaction with the barbell of different gender athletes in the jerk phases shows that female weightlifters in some phases of the movement apply a higher level of maximum force to the barbell than male athletes, and in others, its level of force is lower, despite of the fact that they lift a barbell of much less weight. Conclusion. Most of the biodynamic components of the technique of lifting the barbell in jerk are significantly higher in women than in men. The vast majority of biodynamic components of the jerk technique among athletes of groups 1-3 of weight categories have significant differences in the magnitude of the force of interaction with the barbell, including depending on the weightlifter’s gender

Kinematic models of competitive exercise techniques in highly qualified weightlift athletes in the process of competitive activity

According to the results of the analysis of scientific-methodical and special literature (results of monitoring Internet sources) on the problems of technical training of elite weightlifters, the team of authors established that the problem of pedagogical modeling of the kinematics of the technique of competitive exercises the competitive activity remains relevant even today.&#x0D; The purpose of the work is to consider and analyze individual models of the kinematics of the competitive exercise weightlifter’s technique for the development of control characteristics of the barbell movement during effective competitive activity. In the process of research and analytical work, the following methods were used: the study of scientific and methodological literature, Internet resources, pedagogical observations, video recordings of competitions, biomechanical analysis of the barbell movement structure, methods of mathematical statistics.&#x0D; As a result of the research, we analyzed individual models of the kinematics of the snatch and clean technique (first phase of C&amp;J) of the elite weightlifters of the last century and modern athletes from different countries of the world (winners and medalists of the Olympic Games, world and continental championships) in the process of competitive activity. It has been proven that the efficiency of the technique of competitive exercises of the elite weightlifters can be evaluated by the biomechanical characteristics of the barbell movement in two main phases of the "athlete-barbell" movement structure: during the movement of the barbell up to the maximum height and during its movement down into the catch position). The cited research materials show that there are certain differences in the technique of performing competitive exercises among elite weightlifters of different genders and weight categories regarding the amplitude of the upward movement of the barbell, as well as during its movement into the catch position. It has been confirmed that the economical technique of moving the bar in these two phases can be provided that the differences between the two phases of movement (up and down) are minimal.

Study of Red Ginseng Preparation HRG80 for Relieving Muscle Pain/Soreness and Supporting the Neuromuscular Performance of Elite Weightlifters in Intense Resistance Exercise: An Open-Label, Randomized, Crossover Trial

This study aimed to assess the efficacy of new Panax ginseng C.A.Mey preparation of increased bioavailability in fatigue assessed as relief of muscle soreness and improving the neuromuscular performance of healthy subjects following a bout of intense resistance exercise. The effects of the hydroponically cultivated red ginseng root powder HRG80TM (RG) γ-Cyclodextrin -based chewable tablets and cyclodextrin-free RG capsules were compared in an openlabel, randomized, crossover trial on 20 elite weightlifters. The RG treatments for 10 days have a statistically significant effect on the relief of the muscle’s soreness compared to the control. No statistically significant difference was observed in the effects of two capsules vs. one tablet suggesting that γ-Cyclodextrin based chewable tablets of red ginseng preparation HRG80 are almost 4-fold active of cyclodextrin-free HRG80 capsules. Furthermore, the effect of tablets vs. control was significant on the 5th day of the treatment, while the effect of capsules vs. control was observed three days later - on the 8th day. However, in push-ups on the uneven bars (PUB) test of neuromuscular performance, the capsule intake results in increased physical performance compared to tablets or control with maximal effect on the 7th day of treatment. The results of this study provide evidence for the efficacy of γ-cyclodextrin-based chewable tablets containing 100 mg of red ginseng HRG80TM for relief of muscle soreness and supporting the neuromuscular performance of healthy subjects in intense resistance exercise.

The Association between Total Genotype Score and Athletic Performance in Weightlifters.

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between power-oriented genetic polymorphisms and weightlifting status, create a total genotype score (TGS), and validate the association between TGS models and power-oriented athletes. First, 192 weightlifters and 416 controls were studied, and 12 polymorphisms that have previously been associated with strength, power status, and phenotype were genotyped using the TaqMan SNP genotyping assay. We calculated the TGS for the 12 polymorphisms using a PWM (power-oriented whole model) and for 6 of them using a WRM (weightlifting-related model) based on a case-control study. Second, the TGS of the WRM was compared for 177 strength and power athletes and 416 controls. There was no significant difference in the PWM score between weightlifters and the controls. Weightlifters and elite weightlifters had higher WRM scores than the controls. However, the WRM score had no association with weightlifting performance. There was no significant difference in the WRM between power-oriented athletes and the controls. Our study was able to create a TGS model for weightlifters based on case-control results. However, the TGS model could not be applied to other power-oriented athletes.

Kinematic Characteristics of Snatch Techniques in an Elite World-Record Holder of Weightlifting: A Case Study

Aim: This study aimed to analyze the kinematic characteristics of snatch techniques in a world-class weightlifter who holds the world record in the 73 kg category. Methods: Two high-speed cameras (Sony, Tokyo, Japan, 25 Hz) were used to collect kinematic data at the 2019 Weightlifting World Championships. The SIMI° motion capture system (Simi Reality Motion Systems GmbH, Munich, Germany, 50 Hz) was used to analyze the snatch performance. Results: The lower limb movement during the first pulling stage showed a similar trajectory to elite weightlifters. The athlete showed 5.62° of knee flexion along with continuously increasing barbell velocity (maximal velocity up to 1.90 m/s) in the second pulling. Considering the perimeters of technical stability, the maximal value of the distance between the center of gravity of the human body and that of the barbell was 17.20 cm after the second pull. In addition, the barbell center simultaneously shifted 7.00 cm to the right. Conclusions: These results suggest that the world-record weightlifter possesses special technical characteristics. This personalized technical model provides basic information for the training of other elite weightlifters.

Effects of Different Levels of Weightlifting Training on Bone Mineral Density in a Group of Adolescents

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effects of different levels of weightlifting training on bone mineral density (BMD) at different body sites (whole body (WB), lumbar spine (LS), femoral neck (FN), upper limbs (UL) and lower limbs (LL)) in a group of adolescents. Three groups of pubertal boys aged 13-15 years were recruited, including a control group (which included 13 untrained adolescents), a moderately trained group (which included 13 non-elite weightlifters, with four sessions of 2 hours per week) and a highly trained group (which included 13 elite weightlifters, with eight sessions of 2 hours per week). The three groups were paired for age and maturation index (using Tanner stages). Body composition, bone mineral content (BMC) and BMD were evaluated by dual-energy X ray absorptiometry (DXA). Physical performance variables (including weightlifting specific exercises, counter movement jump and squat jump) were measured using validated methods. Results showed that the values of BMD and physical performance variables were greater in the group of elite weightlifters compared to the group of non-elite weightlifters and the control group. In addition, the values of BMD and physical performance variables were higher in the group of the non-elite weightlifters compared to those of the control group. After adjusting for lean mass and squat jump, lumbar spine BMD, FN BMD, UL BMD and LL BMD remained significantly higher in the elite weightlifters’ group compared to the two other groups. In conclusion, the current study suggests that elite adolescent weightlifters have greater bone health parameters compared to moderately-trained adolescent weightlifters and untrained adolescents.

Do Acute Bouts of Resistance Training Influence the Psychometric Status and Affective State of Prepubertal Weightlifters?

Resistance training (RT) can represent a challenging and stressful endeavour for those who participate in it. We aimed to investigate the acute effect of four types of RT exercise [i.e., Concentric (CONC), Isometric (ISOM), Dynamic (DYN) and Eccentric (ECC)] on psychological parameters (feeling scale: FS) and perceived internal load (RPE) in young elite weightlifters. The RT protocols were differentiated according to the contractile characteristics of the involved muscles and comprised: (i) CONC: 3 sets of 3 hurdle jumps; (ii) ECC: 3 sets of drop jumps; (iii) ISOM: 3 sets of 3-second maximal isometric back squat; (iv) DYN: 3 sets of 3 repetitions of 10 RM maximal back squats. Thereafter, participants were reported scores for RPE and FS. The execution of different types of RT exercises did not induce changes in FS. On the contrary, differences in RPE were observed with the CONC protocol being the least acutely strenuous, followed by the ECC and DYN methods. Of all four types used in this study, ISOM seemed to induce the highest RPE score , though these remained relatively low across the 10-point scale. Coaches can manipulate training activities based on the condition of the athlete and the potential physical strain that is associated with each exercise type.&#x0D; Key words: Plyometrics, strenghtening, psychometric status, affective prevalence

Acute Effects of Wearing Different Surgical Face Masks during High-Intensity, Short-Rest Resistance Exercise on Cardiorespiratory and Pulmonary Function and Perceptual Responses in Weightlifters.

Simple SummaryWearing a face mask can block and reduce the exposure of the oronasopharyngeal region to viruses. It is unclear whether wearing a surgical mask (SM) or a three-dimensional (3D) SM (3DSM) during high-intensity, short-rest resistance exercise could influence the cardiac capacity, pulmonary function, and comfort in weightlifters. Wearing both SM and 3DSM during whole-body, high-intensity, short-rest resistance exercise exerted no detrimental effect on blood pressure (BP) or pulmonary function and promoted postexercise hypotension (PEH). Furthermore, wearing a typical SM during exercise produced higher breathing resistance and tightness than did wearing a 3DSM or no mask.This study investigated the effect of wearing a typical surgical mask (SM) or a three-dimensional (3D) SM (3DSM) during whole-body, high-intensity, short-rest resistance exercise on cardiorespiratory, respiratory, and perceptual comfort responses in weightlifters. Twenty elite weightlifters (6 women and 14 men; age = 24.1 ± 4.9 years; height: 167.45 ± 7.60 cm; body mass = 76.48 ± 19.86 kg) who participated in this study performed 3 resistance exercise sessions in a randomized order: (1) without a mask (NM), (2) while wearing a typical SM, and (3) while wearing a 3DSM. Resistance exercise consisted of a descending pyramid scheme starting at 10 repetitions, with a decrease of one repetition per set for the back squat, bench press, and deadlift, as fast as possible at 75% of the one-repetition maximum. Cardiorespiratory and pulmonary function and comfort were measured. Across all conditions, effective postexercise hypotension (PEH) was noted in terms of decreased systolic blood pressure (−4.64%), diastolic BP (−5.36%), mean arterial pressure (−5.02%), and ankle–brachial index (−6.84%). However, the heart rate (40.34%) and rate of pressure product (33.60%) increased, and no effects on pulmonary function were observed in the three conditions. The participants reported higher breathing resistance and tightness when wearing a typical SM than when wearing a 3DSM or no mask. Therefore, both wearing and not wearing a face mask during whole-body, high-intensity, short-rest resistance exercise promoted PEH and exerted no detrimental effect on pulmonary function. Coaches, trainers, and athletes should consider wearing a 3DSM during resistance exercise.

Mental illness in elite weightlifters

Abstract. Introduction: The mental health of elite athletes is a growing area of research however there remains a paucity of data to support evidence-based screening and prevention programmes as well as holistic yet targeted care. Olympic Weightlifting has long been associated in the media with the use of banned substances at an elite level however little is known about the mental health impact that this might represent and what the wider mental health needs of this group might be. Methods: A systematic search of PsychINFO, MEDLINE, EMCARE, EMBASE and CINAHL databases was conducted from inception up until January 2022. Peer reviewed studies of any methodology looking at mental illness or symptoms amongst current elite level Olympic weightlifters were eligible for inclusion. Results: Four articles met all inclusion criteria. Two cross-sectional studies looked at depression and anxiety and two case studies reported psychosis following long-term use of Mephentermine. Results seemed to broadly align with research looking at elite athletes in other sports however it was not possible to compare results between the two cross-sectional studies due to methodological differences. Conclusion: There is very little published research in this area and it is of varying methodological quality. A narrow subset of mental health symptoms were investigated and most of the data were based on self-reported symptoms rather than diagnostic data. Further research is needed to explore the mental health burden in this group and to inform appropriate support programmes.

Comparison of ACE gene single nucleotide polymorphism (rs4646994) profile in Iranian elite karate-kas and weightlifters

Background: The search to identify genetic differences affecting athletic performance has become a challenge recently. Iranian weightlifters and karate-kas are the champions of Olympics. Therefore, the aim of study was the comparison of ACE gene single nucleotide polymorphism (rs4646994) profile in Iranian elite karate-kas and weightlifters. Materials and Methods: The current analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on elite weightlifters (30 people), karateka (47 people) and non-athletes (43 people). After completing the demographic form and checking the health condition and signing the written consent form by the participants, 5 ml of saliva samples were collected from the participants. ACE genotypes were determined using PCR technique and electrophoresis on 1% agarose gel. The data analyses were done with statistical tests of one-way analysis of variance and Chi-square. In all comparisons, a significance level was considered less than 0.05. Results: The results of our study showed that the percentage of prevalence of D allele in the groups of weightlifters, karate practitioners and non-athletes is 58.3, 73.4 and 65.1, respectively. It was also found that the ID genotype was significantly more common in the elite weightlifting and non-athlete groups and the DD genotype was significantly more common in the elite karate group (P&gt;0.05). In the comparison between karate and weightlifting groups, it was also found that there is a significant difference in the distribution of genotypes (χ2 = 7.471, P = 0.024). Conclusion: In the study of ACE I / D gene, ID genotype was the most common in the weightlifting group and DD genotype was the most common in the karate group, which is probably a helpful result for those interested in sports talent to choose and participate in one of these two disciplines.