Weightlifting--commonly referred to as Olympic weightlifting and Olympic lifting--is a strength sport that consists of two lifts: the snatch and the clean and jerk. Both lifts require a high level of technical proficiency and athleticism.
The snatch is a single, continuous movement in which the athlete lifts the barbell from the floor to overhead in one motion. The clean and jerk is a two-part lift in which the athlete first lifts the barbell to the shoulders (the clean) and then lifts it overhead (the jerk).
Olympic weightlifting is a competitive sport that is governed by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF). The IWF organizes world championships and continental championships, as well as the Olympic Games. Each member country has its own governing body for the sport, such as USA Weightlifting (USAW). These governing bodies are responsible for organizing and running national competitions, setting rules and regulations, and selecting athletes to represent their countries in international competitions.
The Snatch
The snatch is a single, continuous movement in which the athlete lifts the barbell from the floor to overhead in one motion. The snatch is the most technical of the two Olympic lifts, and it requires a high level of coordination, strength, and power. Variations of the snatch include the full snatch, power snatch, and split snatch.
Check out this tutorial for performing the snatch by Greg Everett of Catalyst Athletics:
Check out this snatch video with multiple angles and slow motion from Oleksiy Torokhtiy of Warm Body Cold Mind:
The Clean and Jerk
The clean and jerk is a two-part lift in which the athlete first lifts the barbell from the floor to the shoulders (the clean) and then lifts the barbell from the shoulders to overhead (the jerk). The clean and jerk is a more powerful lift than the snatch, and it requires a high level of strength and coordination. Variations of the clean include the full squat clean and the power clean. Variations of the jerk include the split jerk, the power jerk, and the squat jerk.
Check out this tutorial for performing the clean and jerk (split jerk variation) by Greg Everett of Catalyst Athletics:
Check out this clean and jerk (power jerk variation) video with multiple angles and slow motion from Oleksiy Torokhtiy of Warm Body Cold Mind:
The Benefits of Olympic Weightlifting
Olympic weightlifting also offers a number of benefits that cross over to other sports, including:
Increased strength: Olympic weightlifting is a great way to build strength. The snatch and clean and jerk are both compound exercises that work multiple muscle groups at the same time.
Improved power: Olympic weightlifting is a great way to improve power. Power is the ability to generate force quickly, and it is essential for many sports and activities.
Increased athleticism: Olympic weightlifting can help you become more athletic. The snatch and clean and jerk require a high level of coordination, strength, and power.
Reduced risk of injury: Olympic weightlifting can actually help reduce your risk of injury in other sports. When performed correctly, Olympic weightlifting can help improve your flexibility, strength, and balance.
Improved mental toughness: Olympic weightlifting can also help you improve your mental toughness. The sport requires you to be mentally focused and disciplined. This can help you in other areas of your life, such as your work or school.
Conclusion
If you are interested in learning more about Olympic weightlifting, there are a number of resources available to you. You can find books, articles, and videos on the subject. You can also find Olympic weightlifting gyms in most medium to large cities. Olympic weightlifting is a challenging but rewarding sport. It can help you develop strength, power, and athleticism. If you are interested in learning more about Olympic weightlifting, I encourage you to find a qualified coach and start training.
Comments