Evidence-Driven Approaches to Developing Specific Strength in the First Pull: A Narrative Review

Joffe, Shaun A.; Chavda, Shyam; Sorensen, Angela; Comfort, Paul

Abstract

A substantial body of literature has focused on weightlifting derivative lifts, primarily emphasizing the second pull phase because of its greater expression of force, velocity, and power output. The biomechanical resemblance of this phase to various athletic movements underscores the relevance of these derivatives in physical preparation across multiple sports. However, although the findings of these studies greatly enhance our understanding of their effectiveness in enhancing neuromuscular qualities, there remains a noticeable gap in the literature regarding the importance of the first pull phase, specifically within the sport of weightlifting. The aim of this review was to elucidate the relative importance of the first pull phase in snatch and clean & jerk performance and to explore the selection of specific pull derivative exercises that target the strength development of this phase of the lifts.

Citation

Joffe, S. A., Chavda, S., Sorensen, A., & Comfort, P. (in press). Evidence-Driven Approaches to Developing Specific Strength in the First Pull: A Narrative Review. Strength and Conditioning Journal, https://doi.org/10.1519/ssc.0000000000000874

• Journal Article Type: Review
• Acceptance Date: Oct 2, 2024
• Online Publication Date: Nov 20, 2024
• Deposit Date: Dec 16, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Nov 21, 2025
• Journal: Strength & Conditioning Journal
• Print ISSN: 1524-1602
• Electronic ISSN: 1533-4295
• Publisher: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1519/ssc.0000000000000874