5 Reasons Why Olympic Style Weightlifting Rocks!

Alright, let's get into it!

Olympic-style lifts, also known as the snatch and clean and jerk, are like the rock stars of the lifting world. They're flashy, powerful, and can do wonders for your health and fitness goals. If you're looking to lose weight, get stronger, and move better, incorporating these lifts into your routine will challenge you and change you for the better, regardless of your age. So, why are they so fantastic? Let's dive into the top five benefits.

1. Full-Body Workout

One of the most significant advantages of Olympic lifts is that they engage almost every muscle in your body. From your legs to your core to your upper body, these lifts work everything. This means you're getting a comprehensive workout in a shorter amount of time. Imagine doing a snatch—you're using your legs to lift the bar, your core to stabilize, and your shoulders and arms to press it overhead. It's like a one-stop shop for strength, power, mobility and flexibility.

2. Improved Strength and Power

Olympic lifts are all about explosive power. When you're performing these lifts, you're not just moving the weight—you're accelerating it. This kind of training builds both strength and power, which is beneficial for all kinds of activities, from daily tasks to athletic pursuits. You'll find that you can lift heavier, jump higher, and move more swiftly, thanks to the strength gains from these lifts. Power, is an often neglected fundamental of so many commonly followed exercise programs. But there's no doubt that the ability to generate maximum power, whenever needed, is absolutely a part of your every day life.

3. Enhanced Mobility and Flexibility

Believe it or not, Olympic lifts require a good deal of mobility and flexibility. To execute these lifts correctly, you need to have a full range of motion in your joints, particularly in your hips, shoulders, and ankles. Regularly practicing Olympic lifts can improve your mobility and flexibility over time, making everyday movements easier and reducing the risk of injury. Plus, it just feels good to move freely and without pain. But what if your mobility and/or flexibility isn't what it should be? No dramas ... the Olympic style lifts can be scaled and modified to suit anyone regardless of ability, age or experience. For example, the inability to squat to full depth isn't an issue. It just means modifying that element of the workout, whilst still getting the benefit.

4. Boosted Metabolism and Fat Loss

Because Olympic lifts are so demanding, they burn a ton of calories. This high-calorie burn doesn't just happen during your workout; it continues afterward as your body repairs and rebuilds muscle. This is known as the afterburn effect, and it's great for boosting your metabolism and promoting fat loss. So, if weight loss is one of your goals, Olympic lifts can be a powerful tool in your arsenal.

5. Better Coordination and Balance

Olympic lifts are technical and require a lot of focus and coordination. When you're performing these lifts, you're training your brain as well as your body. This improved neuromuscular coordination translates to better balance and coordination in other activities. You'll find yourself more stable and agile, whether you're playing sports or just navigating your daily life.

Getting Started

Now, if you're new to Olympic lifts, it's essential to start with proper instruction. These lifts require technique and form to be effective and safe. Consider working with a coach or trainer who can guide you through the movements and help you build a solid foundation.

Breaking Down the Lifts

• The Snatch: This lift involves lifting the barbell from the ground to overhead in one swift motion. It requires speed, power, and precision.
• The Clean and Jerk: This lift is a two-part movement where you first lift the barbell to your shoulders (the clean) and then press it overhead (the jerk). It's a bit more complex but equally rewarding.

Modifications and Variations

Don't worry if you're not ready for the full lifts right away. There are plenty of modifications and variations to ease you into it. You can start with:

• Hang Power Snatch: Lifting the bar from just above your knees to overhead.
• Hang Power Clean: Lifting the bar from just above your knees to your shoulders.
• Push Press: Pressing the bar overhead without the full clean movement.

There are even ways to modify weightlifting workouts by using dumbbells and kettlebells. As long as we're working on the same movement patterns, with the same intensity, we can duplicate the snatch and clean and jerk with a wide variety of gym and home-made equipment.

So what are you waiting for?

Olympic-style lifts are an excellent addition to any fitness program, no matter your age or experience level. They provide a full-body workout, improve strength and power, enhance mobility and flexibility, boost metabolism, and improve coordination and balance. Plus, they're a lot of fun once you get the hang of them. So, why not give them a try? With proper instruction and a bit of practice, you'll be reaping the benefits in no time. Happy lifting! 🏋️‍♂️🏋️‍♀️

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