Olympic Weightlifting Bars & Weights
Olympic weightlifting is different from other weightlifting because it is specifically meant for competition. Other weightlifting includes the types for bodybuilding and for sports training. Olympic weightlifting is a heaving lifting sport in which competitors use one of two different lifting techniques to lift as much weight as they can above their heads.
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History
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Olympic weightlifting first appeared in the Olympic Games in 1896 with one-handed and two-handed lifts. The press has since been abolished, but the other two events still exist, in both men's and women's competitions. Weightlifting was not in the 1900 Olympics but was officially made an Olympic sport in 1920. One-handed lifts using dumbbells were a part of the events, until taken out in 1928. Three events remained, the press, the snatch and the clean and jerk. The press was taken out in 1976, so now only two events remain in Olympic weightlifting.
Types
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Weightlifting bars and weights are different than standard bars and weights. Olympic weightlifting equipment has three main components: the bar, the weights and the collars. Bars are seven feet long, made of steel and heavier than a standard weightlifting bar. The bar should have adequate knurling, which is the area of diagonal cuts on the bar that provides a grip for the lifter. The knurling should not be too shallow because it will not help with gripping. It should not be too deep because it will tear through calluses. Rotation on the bar needs to be at no more than one to two times, otherwise it is too loose. The bar should also be checked for an warps in the steel. Olympic weights are rubber plates with a two-inch-diameter hole in the middle so they can slide onto the bar. The collar is what secures the weights in position on the bar, preventing them from accidentally falling off as they are lifted.
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Competition
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The Olympic style of lifting is intended for competition. Olympic weightlifting gives competitors a chance to exhibit their weightlifting skills, both in technique and sheer power. It also allows competitors a chance to learn from others to enhance their skills.
Advantages
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Olympic lifting enhances the shoulder and upper back muscles. Although Olympic weightlifting is intended to be a competition sport, it can also be used to efficiently train as an athlete. Because of the quick motions in events, Olympic weightlifting gives a lifter an advantage in strengthening muscles. Olympic weightlifting does not create the bulked-up look of bodybuilding, but it does create more strength and flexibility.
Safety
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Safety first when lifting weights. It is important to remember that Olympic weightlifting involves lifting heavy weights overhead and also dropping weights to the ground. Start out slow and develop your technique before rushing into an extremely heavy weight. Understanding how the weights should be lifted can not only prevent an injury but improve your lifting ability.
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References
- Photo Credit haltérophilie image by Danielle Bonardelle from Fotolia.com Barbell image by Semfamily from Fotolia.com sieger image by michanolimit from Fotolia.com muscles image by Inhumane Productions from Fotolia.com Danger Button image by summerdays from Fotolia.com
