Snatch — Continuous Motion Requirement

Compared across 2 organizations. Snatch Rules category.

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Rule Text by Organization

GSU Girevoy Sport Union

The snatch must be performed as one continuous movement upward from between the knees into the overhead position. Any pause or additional press during the upward phase results in a no-count. The athlete may not half-snatch (snatch to rack then press out).

IUKL International Union of Kettlebell Lifting

The participant must swing the kettlebell in a continuous movement upward into the overhead position. The lift from below the knees to overhead lockout must be one unbroken movement. Any pause or additional press results in a no-count.

Comparison Analysis

Snatch must be performed in one continuous movement from backswing to overhead, without pausing or adding extra movements.

Specificity

IKSFA adds that the movement cannot have "a break or interruption at any point." IKO states more simply "without stopping or additional press."

What All Organizations Agree On

  • Both require continuous motion through the entire snatch
  • Both prohibit additional pressing movements

Athlete Impact: Train a smooth, continuous snatch. Any visible hitch or press-out results in a no-count.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Girevoy Sport Union (GSU) define snatch — continuous motion requirement?

The snatch must be performed as one continuous movement upward from between the knees into the overhead position. Any pause or additional press during the upward phase results in a no-count. The athlete may not half-snatch (snatch to rack then press out).

How does International Union of Kettlebell Lifting (IUKL) define snatch — continuous motion requirement?

The participant must swing the kettlebell in a continuous movement upward into the overhead position. The lift from below the knees to overhead lockout must be one unbroken movement. Any pause or additional press results in a no-count.

See the interactive comparison on KETTLEBELL MONSTER™ for filterable views and more detail.

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