Weightlifting

Weightlifting is a sport in which competitors attempt to lift weights mounted on a steel barbell, using a combination of power and technique. The barbell weighs 20kg for men and 15kg for women. Identical weights are placed at each end of the barbell. Competitors start with the weighted barbell placed in the middle of a 4m-by-4m wooden floor, coated with non-slip material. Weightlifters need not necessarily be heavy, as they compete by weight classes. In Olympic weightlifting there are two different lifts: the Snatch and then the Clean and Jerk. These are both weightlifting events for both men and women.

There are two different weightlifting events: the "snatch", in which competitors must lift the barbell above their head in one steady movement, and the "clean and jerk" where competitors first "clean" the barbell from the floor to an intermediate position in front of the neck, and then "jerk" the barbell to a position above their heads. In both, competitors must hold the bar steady above their heads, with arms and legs straight and motionless.

Three judges determine if a competitor has successfully completed a lift by shining a white light. When at least two white lights are shown, the lift is deemed successful and the competitor may return the bar to the platform. If a competitor fails to achieve a successful lift, a red light is shown.

There are eight male categories (seven for women) determined by body weight.

Men's classes:
56kg, 62kg, 69kg, 77kg, 85kg, 94kg, 105kg and 105+kg.

Women's classes:
48kg, 53kg, 58kg, 63kg, 69kg, 75kg, and 75+kg.

In each division, weightlifters compete in both the snatch and clean and jerk, with the combined weight counting for the overall result. Weights are set in 1kg increments.

Weightlifting Terminology

Bomb: A lifter "bombs" when he fails to record a total. An athlete has three chances to make a successful lift in both the snatch and clean-and-jerk. If he fails to make a valid lift in either of the two lifts, he will not total and has therefore bombed.

Hooking: Hooking is a technique used to hold the bar. A hook grip is when thumbs are placed around the bar and underneath the index and second fingers.

Kilogram: Weight in the sport of weightlifting is measured in kilograms. One kilogram equals 2.2046 pounds.

Six for Six: This refers to a lifter making six valid lifts in six attempts - three successful snatches and three successful clean-and-jerks.

Press Out: This happens when an athlete bends his arms while holding the bar overhead and then presses out to make them straight.

Touching the Platform: A lifter may touch the ground with his feet, but no other part of the body is allowed to touch the platform.

Show Control: A lifter must have the bar under complete control prior to the down signal.

Elbow Touch: Touching the arm or elbow on the knee or leg is not allowed during the clean.