Weightlifting words · Intermediate

The words that make the commentary make sense. They build on the beginner words.

I · Intermediate · 18 words · Step 2 of 2

Competition and equipment terms

Calling order

Lifters are called in this order of priority: the lightest weight on the bar first, then the lowest attempt number, then whoever lifted earlier, then the lowest start number.

Also called: order of lifting
See also: Attempt

Press-out

Continuing to straighten the arms after reaching the lowest point of the squat or split. It is a fault and makes the lift a no lift.

Weight progression

After a successful attempt the next weight must go up by at least one kilogram. After a failed attempt the weight on the bar stays the same.

Technique terms

Hip extension

The powerful straightening of the hips used to drive weight upward during the snatch and clean.

Third pull

The phase in the snatch or clean where the lifter pulls themselves down under the bar after the initial pull.

Catch position

The point where the lifter receives the bar overhead (snatch) or on the shoulders (clean), typically in a squat position.

Split jerk

A jerk in which the lifter splits one leg forward and one back to receive the bar overhead. A lifter may split or bend the legs in either lift.

Power snatch

Versions of the lifts caught in a higher, less deep squat position, often used in training.

Also called: power clean
See also: Squat

Bar path

The trajectory the barbell travels during a lift, ideally kept close to the body for efficiency.

Training terms

Deload

A planned period of reduced training intensity to allow recovery before pushing heavier weights again.

Accessory work

Supplementary exercises that support the main lifts by strengthening specific muscles or movement patterns.

Tempo training

Deliberately slowing down parts of a lift, often the lowering phase, to build control and strength.

Volume

The total amount of training work done, usually measured as sets multiplied by reps multiplied by weight.

Periodisation

Planning training in structured phases over weeks or months to peak for competition.

Competition terms

Sinclair score

A formula used to compare lifters across different bodyweight categories fairly.

Clean pull

A training variation of the clean stopping before the catch, used to build pulling strength.

Referee lights

Three referees judge every lift, each pressing a button for a good lift or a no lift. Two matching decisions are enough, and the Down signal tells the lifter to lower the bar. A referee has three seconds after that to change their decision.

Also called: red light, white light
See also: No lift, Down signal, Referee

Bombing out

Failing all three attempts at a given lift in competition, resulting in no total score for that lift.