Variability of shoulder girdle temperature in the initial phase of the snatch in weightlifting

The identification of activation, synchronization and work of individual muscles in the subsequent stages of lifting weights is interesting for researchers and trainers. Unfortunately, the existing methods of research do not provide such possibilities. Such information could be gathered from infrared measurements as they are non-invasive and can be carried out without the direct involvement of the weightlifter. The purpose of the study was to analyse temperature changes in the shoulder girdle in the first phase of the snatch in weightlifting.

The study involved 11 weightlifters who competed in two weight categories, 94 and 105 kg, during the World University Championships in 2018. The performance of the snatch was recorded using a thermographic camera in three consecutive attempts. We analysed the temperature changes in the left and right shoulder girdles in the two initial stages of the snatch. Statistical analysis of empirical data was performed using linear mixed effects models.

Statistically significant temperature increases were found from the moment of gripping the barbell to the moment it was pulled. These effects were different in individual weightlifters, but did not depend on the attempt or the side of the body.

Temperature increases in the initial phase of the snatch are most likely the result of activating successive motor units in order to perform the effort needed to pull the barbell and cause it to accelerate. The results obtained confirm that thermography is an effective method of monitoring muscle activity in weightlifting, which may be useful for coaches and athletes.