Weightlifting

Olympic Weight Lifting is one of the world's oldest competitive sports.

An Overview of Weightlifting

With its origins reaching back to the Olympic games of Ancient Greece where some form of it has been practiced continually for thousands of years. In 1896, it was included as one of the competitions in the first modern Olympic Games. It has since then continued to be an important part of the athletic pride of countries all over the world.

Olympic Weight Lifting is comprised of two movements, the Snatch and the Clean and Jerk. The Snatch is a single movement which tests the athlete's gymnastic ability. Whereas the Clean and Jerk has been used as a means to test an athlete's strength.

Benefits

Weightlifting helps boost your strength, muscle definition and energy levels. Depending on the style of weightlifting programme you perform, it can either build the size of your muscles or create longer, leaner muscles. Contrary to popular belief, weight lifting will not make you bulky if you're female, the female body does not produce enough testosterone to do this, and instead you just lose weight!

Although standard weightlifting is not a form of cardiovascular exercise, it can still help fat loss. An intense weightlifting training session burns approximately 266 calories per hour, with extra calorie loss still occurring up to 48 hours later due to muscle growth.

Involvement

Clubs provide the best place for people of all ages and abilities to attend training sessions with a qualified coach who will help you lift weights safely and develop a programme to help you achieve your goals.

To find a club in your local area please use the 'Club Finder' here: http://britishweightlifting.org/clubs-and-gyms

Adaptations and Equipment

To get started, all you will need is trainers and clothing suitable to sport such as shorts and a t-shirt. Many athletes wear weight lifting suits as you advance and enter competitions.