Chain training, a technique where chains are hung from the ends of conventional barbells, is rapidly increasing in popularity in strength training facilities nationally. Advocates contend that the use of chains assists in the development of explosive power, increased core stabilization, enhanced motor control and balance. Yet empirical evidence to substantiate these claims is lacking. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of chains on the technical execution of the snatch. Specifically, the variables examined were maximum vertical displacement of the bar, maximum bar velocity, and the vertical ground reaction forces (Fz) for the first pull, unweighting, and second pull phases of the lift. Three female and four male competitive weightlifters who incorporate the use of chains in their training participated in the study. Each lifter employed his or her individual warm-up protocol prior to performing one repetition of the following five lifts: (1) 75% of the individual’s 1 repetition maximum (RM) using only the conventional bar and weights, (2) 80% of the individual’s 1 RM, 75% of which was accounted for by the conventional bar and weights with the remaining 5% accounted for by the addition of chains, (3) 80% of the individual’s 1 RM using only the conventional bar and weights, (4) 85% of the individual’s 1 RM, 80% conventional bar and weights, 5% chains and (5) 85% of the individual’s RM using only the conventional bar and weights. Each trial was completed by all lifters prior to moving to the next higher percentage load. This process ensured ample rest periods between lifts. During each trial, lifters positioned their right foot on an AMTI force plate which collected ground reaction forces at a rate of 1000 HZ. In addition, all trials were videotaped using an S-VHS camera capturing the subject’s right side in the sagittal plane at 60 HZ. A reflective marker was placed on the end of the bar facing the camera. Kinematic data were digitized and analyzed using the PEAK Motus 4.3 motion analysis system. Separate paired t-tests were used to examine each variable for both the 80% and 85% conditions. Results revealed no significant differences for any variable. Consequently, the technical execution of the snatch was not influenced by the addition of chains. Keyword(s): athletics/sports, performance, technique