What is Olympic Weightlifting?

Olympic Weightlifting is one of the original sports of the modern Olympic Games and is among the most technically demanding athletic disciplines in the world. It is a sport that rewards patience, precision and persistence — and one that can be taken up at almost any age.

Unlike powerlifting or general strength training, Olympic Weightlifting consists of just two competitive lifts:

The Snatch

The Snatch is a single, continuous movement in which the athlete lifts the barbell from the floor to directly overhead in one explosive motion. It demands exceptional speed, flexibility, balance and co-ordination. Technically, it is one of the most challenging movements in sport — and one of the most satisfying to master.

The Clean & Jerk

The Clean & Jerk is performed in two phases. First, the athlete pulls the barbell from the floor to the shoulders (the Clean), before driving it overhead to full arm extension (the Jerk). The Clean & Jerk typically allows athletes to lift greater loads than the Snatch and is often the more dramatic lift to watch.

Competition

In competition, athletes are given three attempts at each lift. The highest successful lift in each discipline is added together to produce a total, and athletes compete within bodyweight categories. Competitions are held at local, regional, national and international level — including the European and World Championships, the Commonwealth Games and the Olympic Games itself.

Is it safe?

When taught correctly, Olympic Weightlifting is a very safe sport. At HWC, all coaching is delivered by qualified, British Weightlifting accredited coaches who prioritise technique and progression above all else. Beginners always start with light loads and develop their lifting gradually under expert supervision.

Who can do it?

Anyone. Our club coaches members from age 11 upwards, and we have active members competing at masters level well into later life. You do not need to be strong to start — you need to be willing to learn. Strength, speed and confidence all follow from good coaching and consistent practice.