If you’re looking for a challenging and dynamic way to build strength, endurance, and explosive power, then look no further than Olympic lifting. Olympic lifting is a sport that has been a part of the Olympic Games since 1896. It involves a few lifts: the snatch, clean, and jerk, which are performed with a barbell loaded with weight plates. Olympic lifting requires a combination of strength, technique, speed, and flexibility, making it one of the most demanding and rewarding forms of physical training. So, whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a fitness enthusiast looking to try something new, Olympic lifting is an excellent way to push your limits.

POWER CLEAN

Power cleans are challenging exercises that require both strength and technique, but the benefits are worth the effort. In addition to strength and power, power cleans also improve your coordination, speed, and agility. This exercise targets multiple muscle groups, including the hamstrings, glutes, lower back, shoulders, and traps, making it a full-body workout. The power clean is a staple in Olympic lifting and is often used by athletes in o football, basketball, and wrestling, to improve their explosive power. Once adding power cleans to my workout, I felt that my traditional workouts were finally being utilized.

power clean
hang power clean

HANG POWER CLEAN

The hang power clean and power clean may look similar, but there are some key differences between the two. The hang power clean is performed by starting with the barbell in a standing position and then lifting it up to shoulder level, while the power clean starts with the barbell on the ground. Another key difference is the amount of momentum generated during the lift. With the hang power clean, there is less momentum since you’re starting the lift from a standing position, making it a more controlled movement. The power clean, on the other hand, requires a more explosive movement to generate momentum to lift the barbell off the ground. Both exercises target similar muscle groups, including the hamstrings, glutes, and upper back, but the hang power clean may be more suitable for beginners who are still developing their technique and strength. So, if you’re looking to switch up your Olympic lifting routine, give the hang power clean a try and see how it compares to the classic power clean.

POWER CLEAN AND JERK

The power clean and jerk is a dynamic compound exercise that engages multiple muscle groups, making it a popular choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike. This exercise involves lifting a barbell from the ground to the shoulders using a powerful hip extension, followed by a quick transition into a jerk to propel the barbell overhead. The power clean and jerk offers numerous benefits, including improved explosive power, increased muscle mass and strength, and enhanced athletic performance. Incorporating the power clean and jerk into your workout routine can help you achieve your fitness goals and take your training to the next level.

power clean and jerk
olympic lifting

FINAL THOUGHTS

In conclusion, Olympic lifting is a challenging and rewarding form of physical training that can help improve your overall fitness and athletic performance. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out, incorporating exercises like the power clean, hang power clean, and power clean and jerk into your training routine can help you build strength, power, speed, and coordination. These exercises target multiple muscle groups and require both strength and technique, making them a well-rounded workout that benefits both your physical and mental health. So, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and give Olympic lifting a try – you might be surprised at what you’re capable of!

 

More Articles

The Best Full Body HIIT Workout You Can Do
The Best Full Body HIIT Workout You Can Do

Workouts involving full-body high-intensity interval training (HIIT) are a quick and easy approach to optimize your fitness progress. These workouts usually consist of a series of heart-pumping, intensive movements that target numerous muscle groups at once,...

The Fierce Flats
The Fierce Flats

With our "Fierce Flat’s" blog, you'll be able to dive into the realm of lifting like never before. Forget about flashy kicks and high-tech soles; there's a new look in town. This blog will break down Converse and Vans' game-changing styles for all of your lifting...