Topic: Your thoughts on elbow position in the jerk

[Andy Dick]

This is mainly to spur discussion and so I can learn why I do what I do with my elbows in the jerk.  I was watching some videos in the hall of fame and noticed the some lifters have thier elbows high (so tricep is parallel to the ground) and others have them lower (pointing in an angle towards the floor in front of them).  I know that having the elbows down some is more optimal.  Why do some have them up?  Do they not have efficient form or is that what just worked for them?  Or just not as efficient elbow position at that particular time?  Also, can I get explaination on why having the elbows down more is more optimal for my own coaching.  I assume it is because your are stronger to "press" (for lack of a better word) when dropping under the bar and to enable the lifter to lift the bar straighter up to the recieving position.

[Craig Vandeweghe]

I would always like to see the elbows pointed a little down. This helps keep the chest "BIG" to make a better shelf to drive off of.

[Matt Erdman]

I would always like to see the elbows pointed a little down. This helps keep the chest "BIG" to make a better shelf to drive off of.

I see it as the opposite. Elbows up gives the bar a more stable shelf, and keeps the back straighter. Elbows down allows the arms to activate sooner in the jerk, so there is some give and take.

[Paul LaDuke]

I personally am more comfortable with my elbows high for the very reasons that Matt states.  I feel I can keep the trunk very stiff and stable and get a more effecient force transfer from the hips to the bar if my elbows are high.

One slight difference that I have recently learned is to try to get the elbows wide.  This spreads the chest as you fill your lungs and gives a nice sturdy platform for the bar to rest on.

[Craig Vandeweghe]

See the picture. This is what I would consider pointed a little down.
Yes I would agree with the elbows wide.