Olympic Weightlifting in NJ: Some Basics

January 9, 2018 Written by CrossFit Salus

Olympic Weightlifting in NJ: Some Basics

Olympic weightlifting, also referred to as weightlifting, is a competitive sport in which athletes attempt a maximum weight lift of two different lifts: the clean and jerk and the snatch. To find a USAW Sanctioned Olympic Weightlifting Club in NJ, visit their website at teamusa.org.

In the snatch, the weightlifter lifts a barbell from the floor to overhead in a single movement.

In the clean & jerk, the weightlifter lifts a barbell first from the floor to the shoulders (the clean) and then from the shoulders to overhead (the jerk).

CrossFit Weightlifting

In CrossFit, Olympic weightlifting is just one of the ten different disciplines emphasized. And the exposure from CrossFit has actually helped to boost the popularity for the Olympic Weightlifting sport in the U.S. Even the NBC Olympics reports, “CrossFit fitness programs are re-introducing Olympic-style weightlifting into American culture.”

Olympic Weightlifting vs Powerlifting

Although it may initially sound confusing when it comes to the difference between Olympic Weightlifting and Powerlifting…they are actually very (very) different from each other.

Olympic Weightlifting consists of two movements: the Snatch and the Clean & Jerk.

Powerlifting covers the squat, bench and the deadlift.

And Powerlifting covers three different movements: the squat, bench and the deadlift.

Proper Olympic Weightlifting Progression

In Olympic Weightlifting, you’ll notice four steps that are followed progressively including your positions, movements, then speed, and finally load. Each should be mastered before moving into to the next. How quickly an athlete progresses depends on a number of things including mobility and the athlete’s previous abilities.

Let’s break it down further:
– Positions: This includes your posture, grip, knee bend, back angle, etc.
– Movements: Connecting the positions and bar bath to perform the actual lift
– Speed: Turning the movements into quick and explosive, yet controlled technique
– Load: Only once technique has been mastered, it’s time to load it up and go heavy

USAW Sanctioned Olympic Weightlifting Club in Middletown NJ

Learn some basics and find a trusted USAW Sanctioned Olympic Weightlifting Club in NJ to coach you through the movements.

As a USAW Sanctioned Olympic Weightlifting Club in New Jersey, we have all the tools you need to take the next step with your weightlifting training. Talk to a certified weightlifting coach at TripleX Weightlifting Club in Middletown NJ.

Read More About Olympic Weightlifting

• Why Do We Love Weightlifting Training So Much?
• Prioritize Your Olympic Lifting Warm Up to Maximize Results