Weightlifting Events
Although there have been several different techniques and lifts held as part of the Olympic Games competition, only two are now classified as 'Olympic Lifts'. They are the 'Snatch' and the 'Clean and Jerk'.
The Snatch
In the snatch event, the competitor lifts the bar overhead in a single motion. While lifting the bar, not other body part may touch the ground. The competitor is allowed to bend the knees and split the legs during the lifting action. Once the bar is overhead, the competitor must remain motionless with the arms and legs extended, and the bar and body in a straight line. Once this is achieved, the referees give the green light of a successful lift.
weightlifting competitionThe Clean and jerk
The clean and jerk is a two-part lift. The first part is called the clean, in which the weight is lifted from the ground level to the shoulder in a single motion. As in the snatch, the competitor is allowed to bend the knees and split the legs during the lifting action. The second part of the lift is called the jerk, in which the competitor bends the knees while concurrently extending the arms upwards. The bar is held motionless over the head until the green light is given for a successful lift.
Related Pages
- Weightlifting major world events
- Weightlifting home
- Weight Lifting at the Olympic Games
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