Shoulders exercise · barbell
Barbell One Arm Snatch
The barbell one arm snatch is a barbell exercise that targets the shoulders (deltoids), with the traps, forearms and core assisting.
How to do the barbell one arm snatch
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, toes pointing slightly outwards.
- Hold the barbell with an overhand grip, hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
- Bend your knees and lower your hips into a squat position, keeping your back straight and chest up.
- Explosively extend your hips, knees, and ankles, driving the barbell upwards.
- As the barbell reaches chest level, pull it upwards with your arm, keeping it close to your body.
- Rotate your elbow under the barbell and extend your arm fully overhead, locking out your elbow.
- Lower the barbell back down to the starting position in a controlled manner.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions, then switch arms.
Sets and reps
For muscle growth, 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps with 60–90 seconds of rest is a proven starting point. For strength, use a heavier weight for 3–5 sets of 3–6 reps and rest 2–3 minutes. Add a little weight once you hit the top of your rep range on every set.
Muscles worked
The main muscle is the shoulders (deltoids). The traps, forearms and core work as secondary muscles. See all shoulder exercises or every barbell exercise.
