Practice vs Training

Dylan wanted me to post some more videos of me snatching so he could study my technique. I think there are much better examples at Catalyst Athletics and on You Tube (just search for “Olympic weightlifting”), but I decided to post some of my lifts in the context of practice because it is something that I have wanted to post on for some time.

All of the lifts and exercises we do at MDF have some technical component, or more accurately, neurological challenge. When we practice that lift or exercise, we, hopefully, get a neurological adaptation which makes the lift seem “easier” and our technique better. Conversely, we train with a lift or exercise, we are trying to get an organic adaptation like larger muscles, more flexibility, better cardiovascular fitness, etc. I don’t think there is any argument that both practice and training are required to getter better at any sport or exercise. However, I do think there are differences in opinion about when to practice and how to make the most of the time spent practicing.

This video shows how I practice and warm-up to lift heavy. In a future post, I will detail how I train to the physically prepare to lift heavy over a four week cycle. The video ends with Bryan going back to practice mode during a snatch workout. One thing that you can see throughout the video is Bryan stretching and practicing with a bar to gain flexibility and mobility, as well as, the movement patterns required for the lift which contribute to his success.