Weightlifting is a disciplined sport governed by a set of standardized rules and regulations that ensure fair competition and athlete safety. Below is an overview of the key aspects of weightlifting, including the lifts, weights, competition format, and judging criteria.
The Lifts
- The Snatch:
- In this single-movement lift, the athlete holds the barbell with a wide grip, lifts it off the ground, and raises it overhead in one fluid motion. The lifter must stand upright while holding the bar overhead to complete the lift.
- The Clean and Jerk:
- This lift consists of two parts:
- Clean: The lifter begins with a shoulder-width grip, pulls the barbell up to the shoulders, and stands up with the bar balanced on their shoulders.
- Jerk: Once stable, the lifter quickly thrusts the barbell overhead and stands upright with control. After the lifter has demonstrated control of the lift, the judges will signal for the bar to be lowered.
- This lift consists of two parts:
The Weights
- Barbell Standards:
- The standard barbell used in weightlifting is 20 kg for men, while women and youth lifters use a 15 kg barbell, which has a slightly smaller diameter.
- Weight Disks (Plates):
- The barbell is loaded with disks of various weights, which adhere to international color codes:
- 25 kg: Red
- 20 kg: Blue
- 15 kg: Yellow
- 10 kg: Green
- 5 kg: White
- 2.5 kg: Red
- 2 kg: Blue
- 1 kg: Green
- 0.5 kg: White
- The barbell is loaded with disks of various weights, which adhere to international color codes:
- Loading the Barbell:
- The barbell is loaded with the minimum number of disks required to reach the desired weight. Each end of the barbell must be secured with collars, which weigh 2.5 kg each.
The Competition
- Attempts:
- Each lifter is allotted three attempts for both the Snatch and Clean and Jerk. All lifters in a session complete their Snatch attempts before taking a 10-minute break, after which they perform their Clean and Jerk attempts.
- Scoring:
- The total score is determined by the sum of the best Snatch and best Clean and Jerk lifts. Medals and trophies are awarded based on this total.
- Weight Classes:
- Lifters compete within their respective weight classes, though some sessions may mix different weight classes. Open events may also combine weight and age classes, which include:
- Youth: Under 17 years
- Junior: Under 20 years
- Seniors: Open category
- Masters: Over 35 years
- Lifters compete within their respective weight classes, though some sessions may mix different weight classes. Open events may also combine weight and age classes, which include:
- Progression:
- Lifters can only attempt to increase the weight on the barbell. All lifters attempting a particular weight must complete their lifts before those aiming for higher weights can proceed.
Judging
Three judges oversee the competition to determine whether a lift is deemed “Good” or “Bad” based on specific criteria:
- Platform Rules: No part of the lifter’s body (except the soles of the feet) may touch the platform during the lift.
- Press Out: The lifter cannot press the barbell; elbows must remain locked without bending.
- Continuous Movement: The lift must be executed in one continuous motion without stopping or restarting.
- Elbow Position: During the Clean, elbows must not touch the thighs or knees to avoid injury.
- Stability: The lifter must hold the barbell steady and motionless during the transition from Clean to Jerk and while overhead.
- Lowering the Bar: After a successful lift, the lifter must guide the barbell down below shoulder level instead of dropping it from an overhead position.
- Platform Presence: The lifter must remain on the platform throughout the execution of the lift.
Conclusion
Understanding the rules and regulations of weightlifting is essential for athletes, coaches, and spectators. These guidelines ensure a fair and safe competition environment, allowing athletes to perform at their best and achieve their lifting goals.