Using Video Modeling and Video Feedback to Improve Olympic Weightlifting Technique

Behavioral coaching procedures have been evaluated and enhanced over the years to find the most effective interventions for athletic performance in a variety of sports settings. Different types of feedback have been evaluated for effectiveness in teaching and improving skills. The purpose of this study was to extend the research on behavior analytic interventions in sports performance by examining the effects of video modeling and video feedback to improve technique for three novice athletes in a fitness program incorporating Olympic weightlifting. Two Olympic weightlifting events, the clean and jerk and snatch, were targeted for intervention. Video modeling and video feedback were effective in improving both lifts for all three participants. The social validity measure indicated that the intervention was highly acceptable for both participants and trainers.