Which cue is recommended to prevent the bar from swinging out in front when using PVC during snatch work?

• A. Jump higher!
• B. Elbows high and outside!
• C. Keep the chest lifted
• D. Be sure hips not too low

Answer: (B)

Keeping elbows high and outside is the best cue because it helps you maintain a close bar path during the snatch drill with PVC. When the elbows stay elevated and flare outward, the shoulders are set in a stable, externally rotated position that supports a more vertical bar path and keeps the bar near your midline. This reduces the tendency for the bar to drift forward and swing out in front as you pull under and catch. Other cues like lifting the chest or driving a bigger jump don’t address the bar’s horizontal movement as directly, and overly low hips can alter leverage and speed. So, elbows high and outside directly promotes the solid, close-to-body bar path needed in this drill.