Olympic Weightlifting

Weightlifting, a major Olympic sport, is open to everybody. People of all shapes and sizes can get involved because competitors compete in their own weight category.

In weightlifting, lifters compete individually in a competition that requires physical and mental agility, and also tactical skills. There are two competitive lifts in weightlifting:

1. The Snatch - the 'fastest lift in the world' because it takes under a second to get the bar from the floor to over the head.

2. The Clean and Jerk - a two-part lift whereby the bar is lifted and rested across the breastbone, and then pushed up over the head.

Weightlifting is an excellent activity for building strength and explosive power, as well as a great way of keeping fit.

For information on preventing or recoveing from Weightlifting Injuries, visit our dedicated Weighlifting Injuries page provided by Newcastle Sports Injury Clinic.

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