AFAA Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

What defines the competition in Olympic lifting?

1. Squats and presses

2. Dead lifts and bench presses

3. Clean and jerk

4. Power cleans and snatch lifts

The correct answer is: Clean and jerk

The competition in Olympic lifting is defined by the clean and jerk. This event consists of two specific lifts where the athlete must lift a barbell from the ground to an overhead position. The clean involves raising the barbell to the shoulders, while the jerk consists of pushing or pressing the barbell from the shoulders to an overhead position in one continuous or two-part movement. The competition format focuses on the maximum weight an athlete can lift in these two events, and they are judged based on technique, strength, and control. This distinction is crucial as Olympic lifting differs from other forms of weightlifting or strength training, which might include a broader variety of exercises such as squats, deadlifts, or benches—not specifically part of Olympic competition. Understanding this distinction is key for trainers and athletes aiming to excel in the sport.