The effects of focus of attention on the learning of the clean weightlifting technique in novices

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of different focus of attention (FOA) feedback on the learning of the clean weightlifting technique. Sixteen participants naive to the task were divided into two groups (external and internal FOA) and attended three sessions of learning. Bar and lifter kinematics were measured prior to and after learning, and retention and transfer tests were performed seven days after protocol completion. Internal FOA feedback promoted greater reduction of the distance between the bar and the lifter’s body, whereas both types of feedback were found to be equally effective at modifying hip, knee and ankle flexion/extension patterns in the pulling phases of the lift. There seems to be insufficient evidence to advise coaches to choose one type of FOA feedback exclusively, as each approach could target different needs/stages of learning.