Abstract
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 < 0.05; left: r = -0.332 p < 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 < 0.01; r = -0.467, p < 0.01, respectively). Maximum heel height exhibited a very strong positive correlation between feet (r = 0.853, p < 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.