It’s pretty clear by now that my left side does not like to snatch. I’ve got a saved search on ebay for a new left side, but so far haven’t had any hits.
Wednesday night was also not a hit. Like Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure, it started out o.k. but deteriorated into a mindless disaster.
I felt like I had plenty of energy, so I extended my sets from 2:00 to 2:10 per hand. I started off with my right side and got 32 snatches with my 20 kg. I immediately switched to my left and got 30. I was trying to pace myself and not go as fast as possible, while also trying to keep the kettlebell moving. I also lengthened my rest periods to favor my grip and try to get the most out of each set.
That, however, was not to be.
My second set of snatches went great with my right hand – 30 – but when I got to my left hand, I hit a wall with 40 seconds remaining and nearly lost the bell as I corkscrewed down. This was just a wee bit frustrating as I hit the full 2:00 last week for all 4 sets. it was painful, but I made it nonetheless. Now here I was not even able to make the 2:00 mark.
I finished the remaining two sets strong on my right side but losing my grip on my left.
After resting for 5 minutes, I took my 24 kg and snatched for 10 reps each side just to see where I stood. It’s been quite a while since I snatched with the 53 pounder, and I felt like a rank beginner at that point.
The bright side to this whole fiasco was that I’m still able to snatch and don’t have any injuries.
I think I may have my 16 kg sitting nearby next time, in order to grab it when I fail with the 20. I want to push the time up and get my arm and grip used to moving for the entire 2:10.
Friday is long cycle day.
TGIF!
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Hey Jim, are you a righty or lefty? If you’re a righty, start your sets with your left hand (or with your right if you’re a lefty).
And if I were you, I would perform my last set with a lighter bell rather than a heavier one. Finish off feeling good, with good form rather than push yourself into a deeper hole. Save the heavier bell for a set of swing rather than a complex movement like snatch.
Maybe your body just needs a bit of tapering? Try a week with a lighter bell, keeping your set times the same.
Yes, righty. Duly noted and I’ll start weak side next time.
I think you may be right on the tapering, Howie. Sets with the 16 kg would be a nice break before climbing back up with the 20s.
Thanks for the advice!