INFLUENCE OF OLYMPIC WEIGHTLIFTING TRAINING ON MOTOR ABILITIES IN CHILDREN

ABSTRACT Introduction. One of the main goals of the Olympic weightlifting training process is to ensure a healthy motor training regime. Those activities are aimed at achieving tangible positive effects on the body, as well as providing adequate conditions for the physical development of trainees. Preparation under professional coaching in sports clubs guarantees the achievement of good sports performance. Methodology. The goal of this study is to identify the changes that occur in the physical performance of children (boys), under the influence of specialized training with the means of Olympic weightlifting. Eighteen (18) weightlifters aged 13 participated in the experiment. The study was conducted in two stages: the baseline data were collected in June 2020, and the final measurements were in June 2022. Results. Based on the results, we can conclude that the structured, specialized Olympic weightlifting training protocol positively affects explosive strength of lower limbs, speed, and flexibility in 13-year-old children. Discussion and conclusions. Habitual Olympic weightlifting training is not a very popular activity among children. It is generally considered risky and not appropriate for youngsters. However, our results painted a different picture, and based on them and our practical experience, in our opinion, if the methodology is properly modified, Olympic weightlifting is a powerful tool for the development of motor abilities in children.