What is Weightlifting?
Intro
Weightlifting, also known as Olympic Weightlifting, is a sport in which athletes lift a barbell loaded with weight plates from the ground to overhead, with the aim of successfully lifting the heaviest weights. These lifts are known as the Snatch and the Clean and Jerk.
Many strength sports test limit strength. Olympic Weightlifting tests limits of human power (explosive strength). These lifts are executed faster, require more mobility and greater range of motion than other barbell lifts.
The Snatch
In the Snatch, with a wide grip the barbell is lifted from the floor to arms length over head in one continuous, explosive movement. The lifter is allowed to move their feet and squat to receive the bar overhead before becoming erect.
The Clean and Jerk
The Clean and Jerk is a combination lift. First the lifter must move the barbell from the ground to the front of the shoulders. Once the barbell is on the shoulders, the lifter jerks it overhead to arms length.