The snatch also has an edge in grip development. A long semi-vertical drop from an overhead lockout—or even a throw with a lighter kettlebell—loads the grip in a very “plyometric” manner. Such ballistic eccentric loading builds strength exceptionally well. And given the high number of total reps a snatching girevik will do each week, it builds Popeye forearms too.
The big strike against the snatch is the serious thoracic and shoulder mobility it demands—beyond what a typical Western gym rat, and even many athletes, possess. (This is why the get-up is the first overhead lift taught at StrongFirst.) In summary, it is a tie: Both exercises are equally effective in building power. Both are equally effective in upper back development. The swing is superior for posterior chain and midsection development and strength. Per rep, the snatch burns more fat than the swing. The snatch has an advantage over the swing in grip development. The snatch demands great thoracic and shoulder mobility.
Provided mobility is not an issue and you are skilled in both, which one should you choose? A good analogy is the barbell squat and deadlift. Both exercises work more or less the same muscle groups, yet each has its own edge. One can choose to do both to get the most benefits—at the expense of more complex programming. Or go minimalist, select one lift and polish it to perfection. Swing, snatch, or both, you cannot go wrong. | 
