Optimal control approach to Olympic weightlifting exercise: Minimal model of the snatch pull

TL;DR

This paper develops a minimal optimal control model of the snatch pull in Olympic weightlifting, accurately predicting barbell trajectories and providing a foundation for future biomechanical modeling.

Contribution

It introduces a novel minimal model incorporating force and RFD for the snatch pull, aligning well with experimental data.

Findings

Model accurately predicts barbell trajectory

Incorporates force and RFD in the evaluation

Provides a basis for future biomechanical studies

Abstract

We theoretically investigate the biomechanical aspects of Olympic weightlifting within the framework of optimal control theory. The squared force and the rate of force development (RFD) defined by the time derivative of the force are taken into account in the evaluation functions of the first and second pull phases of the snatch motion. Focusing on the vertical trajectory of the barbell, we develop a minimal model to describe the mechanical characteristics of the weightlifting exercise. The calculated barbell trajectory agrees well with the experimental data obtained by video analysis. Our study would be useful for the further development of mathematical models for weightlifting motions and related exercises.