The Fitness & Wellness Program is excited to introduce Olympic Weightlifting at the Southwest Recreation Center. Complete with Olympic Weightlifting platforms, racks, bumper plates and chalk, the Olympic Weightlifting area is a monitored, controlled space where students who meet specific criteria may perform Olympic-style lifts.
Olympic Weightlifting is a ground-based barbell sport in which one attempts to lift heavy weights for full body development. Two lifts, the Snatch and the Clean & Jerk, are performed by driving against the ground, putting the body into triple extension, driving the body under the weight, and “catching” the weight in the final position.
Olympic Weightlifting develops body awareness, increases muscular coordination, and increases muscle fiber diameter when done correctly, with proper training and safety precautions. It is imperative that Olympic Lifters have good joint mobility and strong experience with core lifts such as the front squat, overhead squat, deadlift and push press.
Who can Test Out?
Any student/member who has a sound background in Olympic Weightlifting is encouraged to test out and utilize the Olympic Weightlifting platforms. In order to pass the practical test, one must correctly perform a Front Squat, Overhead Squat, Deadlift, Clean & Jerk and Snatch as evaluated by a RecSports Professional Fitness Staff member. You will also be required to perform a bailout for both a clean and a snatch. Each test takes approximately 15 minutes to complete.
In alliance with USAW division standards, males are advised to use 95lbs and may reduce to 75lbs for the overhead squat and snatch and females are advised to use 55lbs and may reduce to 35lbs for the overhead squat and snatch.
See the Practical Lifting Criteria under the resources tab for detailed guidelines.
How do I schedule an appointment to Test Out?
Appointments must be made at least 24 hours prior to the desired time and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Students and members can register for Olympic Weightlifting Test Outs on RSconnect
Students and members are allowed two practical test attempts per semester.What if I do not pass?
RecSports also offers an Olympic Weightlifting Clinic to help you improve your skills.
Austin Norden at austin22@ufl.edu