The aerodynamic theory of weightlifting is the idea that differently shaped weights on opposing sides of a barbell cause the bar to lean to one of the sides based on their wind resistance, even when the plates are identical weight and/or momentum arm.
The conclusion that wind resistance must be the reason for the leaning is based on the removal of other variables, such as different weights on opposing sides or differently located centers of momentum.
This phenomena is know to happen when a weightlifter exhausts a supply of paired weights and improvises by using unpaired (i.e. different brands) or multiple weights (i.e. two 5's for one 10).
Some postulate that the theory is purely psychological and not related to wind resistance. That is, the sagging to one side is only created by the effect of unpaired weights on the weightlifter's mind.
Although Kevin Scott Sauerwald was not the first to recognize this phenomena, he was the first to attribute it, in c. 1992, to aerodynamics.
"Bad stacking" is a related problem. Bad stacking occurs when unnecessarily high numbers of plates are used, rather than fewer, heavier plates. Bad stacking can lead to excessive aerodynamic drag on weights. Bad stacking can result in an unpaired stacking when a weightlifter runs out of paired weights and is forced to improvise.
"Sloppy stacking" is a related problem. Sloppy stacking occurs when weights are not fully inserted on a barbell. Sloppy stacking can lead to a shift of the center of gravity on a bar.
Please post replies demonstrating the aerodynamic theory of weightlifting.
Replies showing bad stacking and sloppy stacking are welcomed as well.
