Long-Term Monitoring of Training Load, Force-Velocity Profile, and Performance in Elite Weightlifters: A Case Series With Two Male Olympic Athletes.

Sandau, I and Granacher, U. Long-term monitoring of training load, force-velocity profile, and performance in elite weightlifters: a case series with two male Olympic athletes. J Strength Cond Res 36(12): 3446-3455, 2022-The aim of this case series approach was to analyze weekly changes in force-velocity relationship (FvR) parameters (v̅0, F̅0, P̅max) and theoretical snatch performance (snatchth) assessed through a specific snatch pull test in preparation of the European and World Championships in 2 male elite weightlifters. A second aim was to examine associations of training load (volume, volume load, average load), barbell FvR-parameters, and snatchth over a period of 2 macrocycles in preparation of the same competitions. FvR-parameters, snatchth, training load data, and body mass were assessed weekly over 40 weeks. Using the smallest real difference approach, significant (p ≤ 0.05) decreases in v̅0 and increases in F̅0, P̅max, and snatchth were found within macrocycles. However, the large significant loss in body mass (≈11%) in athlete 1 during macrocycle 2 represents most likely a main factor for diminished P̅max, and snatchth in macrocycle 2. Based on cross-correlation analyses, barbell FvR-parameters and snatchth were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) associated with maximal strength, muscle power, and speed training load variables. Moderate correlations (0.31-0.47) were found between training load and P̅max and snatchth in athlete 2. It can be concluded that the applied training loads elicits improvements in P̅max and snatchth because the athlete approached the main competitions. However, because of the large loss in body mass, the relations between training load and barbell FvR-parameters and snatchth were less clear in athlete 1. It seems that a loss in body mass as a result of a change in bodyweight category mitigates P̅max development during the macrocycle and hindered to reach peak snatchth at the main competitions.