As the world gears up for the Olympic weight lifting events in the 2024 Summer Olympics, many fitness enthusiasts are feeling inspired to try a new sport.
Watching athletes lift impressive weights can be inspiring and motivating for people from all sorts of fitness backgrounds. The great thing about weight lifting is that, unlike some other sports, there’s a very minimal barrier for entry. All you need are some weights to get started!
If you’re curious about Olympic weight lifting but not sure where to start, X3 Sports has got you covered with our Power Track classes. These classes are perfect for beginners looking to explore weight lifting in a supportive and professional environment.
Olympic Weight Lifting vs. Power Lifting: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve heard of competitive weight lifting, you might have heard the term “power lifting”, another common weight lifting competition. Don’t get the two confused though. Olympic weight lifting includes very specific moves, while powerlifting is focused on three basic compound moves: squat, bench press, and deadlift.
The Olympic weight lifting events, on the other hand, is more about explosive power and consist of two main lifts: the “snatch” and the “clean and jerk”. Olympic lifting is often seen as more dynamic and has more of a focus on full-body coordination whereas power lifting is more about a slow and controlled lift focused on the amount of weight a person can move in relation to their own body weight.
Olympic weight lifters use power lifting moves and techniques to build strength and support the muscles needed to complete dynamic Olympics lifts in competition. Getting stronger in all the major muscle groups is essential to building power and coordination and avoiding injury.
The Moves Used in Olympic Weight Lifting
So what are the moves used in Olympic weight lifting events?
The Snatch
The snatch is one of the two primary lifts in Olympic weight lifting, requiring the athlete to lift the barbell from the ground to overhead in one fluid motion. It demands a combination of speed, strength, and flexibility, utilizing the entire body. Coordination is important for the snatch because every major muscle group has to work together to support the lift. The lift is part deadlift and part military press, and it utilizes all sorts of minor stabilizing muscles in between, but together it’s “the snatch”.
The Clean and Jerk
This two-phase lift involves ‘cleaning’ the barbell to the shoulders, and then ‘jerking’ it overhead. To “clean” the barbell means to lift it from the floor to the shoulders in one smooth movement, using a combination of power from the legs and hips, and a quick rotation of the wrists and elbows to catch the barbell in a stable, front-loaded position.
To “jerk” the barbell means to lift it from the shoulders to overhead in a rapid and explosive movement, using the legs to generate upward momentum and quickly locking out the arms to stabilize the weight above the head.
It’s a test of explosive power and technical skill, engaging both the lower and upper body muscles.
Prevent Injury by Starting Slow
Injury is common in competitive weight lifting. Learning the correct form is crucial for preventing injuries and achieving success in weight lifting. At X3 Sports, we emphasize the importance of technique and provide detailed instruction to ensure our members lift safely and effectively.
As a beginner, it’s important to work up to heavier and more complex moves like the “snatch” and the “clean and jerk”. Start with light weights and basic moves like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses. Once you feel like you’ve mastered some of the basic moves that make up these more complex Olympic lifts, then you can start putting them together.
Benefits of Olympic Weight Lifting for Fitness Enthusiasts
Olympic weight lifting isn’t just for elite athletes. It’s an effective way to build strength, improve coordination, and enhance overall fitness. Engaging in any type of lifting can help increase muscle mass, boost metabolism, and improve bone density. It’s also a fantastic way to set personal fitness goals and achieve them, whether you’re aiming to lift more or simply get in better shape. Plus, it looks really impressive on your social media.
Get Started Weight Lifting With Power Track
Transitioning from watching Olympic athletes to trying weight lifting yourself can seem daunting, but our Power Track classes make it accessible and enjoyable to get started. Whether you’re completely new to weight lifting or have some experience, these classes offer a structured and supportive environment to learn and grow. Every class is planned and supervised by a certified personal trainer who will ensure you’re practicing proper form and technique and getting the most out of your workout possible.
What to Expect in a Power Track Class
Power Track classes at X3 Sports are designed to introduce the basics of weight lifting, with core weightlifting compound moves like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses at the core of each class. Classes are beginner-friendly, with a focus on proper form, progressive overload, and building foundational strength.
Training with Professional Coaches
Our experienced coaches are passionate about helping people get stronger and more confident and are dedicated to helping you reach your goals. They provide personalized guidance, ensuring that each class member learns and progresses at their own pace.
Witness the Power of Weight Lifting for Yourself
Many of our members have experienced significant changes through weight lifting, both physically and mentally, either with a personal trainer at X3 or in Power Track weight lifting classes. From increased strength and better posture to enhanced confidence and discipline, the benefits extend far beyond the gym.
Achieving Personal Fitness Goals
Setting and achieving personal goals is a key aspect of weight lifting. Our members find motivation in tracking their progress, whether they’re aiming to lift heavier weights, improve their form, or simply enjoy a healthier lifestyle.
Get Started Today: Join X3 Sports Power Track Classes
With multiple locations around Atlanta, including West Midtown, Inman Park, Marietta, North Marietta, and Athens, X3 Sports makes it easy to start your weight lifting journey. Our Power Track classes are available at convenient times, fitting into your busy schedule.
Sign Up for a Free Weight Lifting Class
Do you want to start training like an Olympic weight lifting champion? Join us at X3 Sports for a free Power Track℠ class and discover the benefits firsthand. Our welcoming community and expert coaches are here to help you every step of the way.
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