Olympic lifting is one of the most powerful tools for building strength, speed, and overall athleticism. At CrossFit St. Charles, we incorporate Olympic lifts into our programming to help members develop explosive power, refine technique, and gain confidence under the barbell.
Whether you’re looking to improve your lifts, break through strength plateaus, or simply learn the fundamentals, Olympic lifting offers benefits for every athlete—regardless of experience level.
What is Olympic Lifting?
Olympic lifting consists of two primary lifts:
- The Snatch – A single-motion lift where the barbell is explosively pulled from the ground to an overhead position.
- The Clean & Jerk – A two-part movement where the barbell is lifted to the shoulders (clean) before being pressed overhead (jerk).
These lifts require a combination of strength, coordination, mobility, and speed, making them some of the most effective full-body exercises in fitness.
The Benefits of Olympic Lifting
Incorporating Olympic lifting into your training routine at CrossFit St. Charles offers numerous advantages, including:
- Increased Strength & Power – Olympic lifts recruit multiple muscle groups, helping to develop explosive strength and full-body power.
- Enhanced Athletic Performance – The skills developed through Olympic lifting translate to improved performance in sports, running, and general functional fitness.
- Improved Mobility & Flexibility – These movements require full range of motion, helping to enhance joint mobility and stability.
- Greater Body Awareness & Coordination – Olympic lifting demands precise movement, teaching athletes to control their body and the barbell more efficiently.
- Mental Toughness & Focus – Mastering these lifts takes time, patience, and discipline, making them a great test of both physical and mental resilience.
Who Should Train Olympic Lifting?
Olympic lifting is beneficial for all fitness levels, whether you are:
- New to CrossFit – Learning the fundamentals of weightlifting in a structured environment.
- An Experienced Lifter – Refining technique and improving strength under the guidance of skilled coaches.
- An Athlete Looking to Improve Performance – Using Olympic lifts to develop explosive power for sports like football, soccer, and track.
- Someone Seeking Strength Gains – Utilizing these lifts to improve overall muscle development and movement efficiency.
How CrossFit St. Charles Coaches Olympic Lifting
At CrossFit St. Charles, we prioritize safety, proper technique, and progressive training to help members excel in Olympic lifting. Our coaching approach includes:
- Foundational Strength & Mobility Work – Ensuring athletes have the proper strength and flexibility for safe lifting.
- Drills & Progressions – Breaking down movements into manageable parts to reinforce good mechanics.
- Video Review & Feedback – Helping lifters refine their technique with individualized coaching cues.
- Accessory Work – Strengthening key muscle groups to support Olympic lifts and prevent injury.
We offer specialty Olympic lifting classes and one-on-one coaching to help members develop confidence and mastery in these lifts.
Get Stronger, Move Better, and Lift with Confidence
If you’re ready to unlock your full potential through Olympic lifting, CrossFit St. Charles is here to help. Whether you want to fine-tune your snatch, increase your clean and jerk, or build overall strength, our expert coaches will guide you through a safe and effective progression.
Check out All Things Gym instagram account for some amazing videos
Work one-on-one with a coach to refine your technique
Gain strength, power, and confidence in your lifts
Take the next step in your fitness journey—sign up for Olympic lifting training at CrossFit St. Charles today!
