The Core Lifts

In weightlifting there are three basic lifts that are always done; the bench press, hang clean, and squat. They are known as the "core" lifts because everyone who does weightlifting knows what they are, and they are used to measure increases. The point of lifting is to increase weight because that means that you are getting stronger. These three lifts are the ones you max out on and are the center of all other lifts.

The hang clean in my opinion is the hardest of the three. It requires both arm and leg strength, and is a hard maneuver to accomplish. To do the lift you must grab the bar, lift/throw it towards the ceiling, jump under it, and stand up. The reason this is hard for me is because it's hard to even attempt this motion when a lot of weight is on the bar. The reason it is important in lifting is because it sets up the weight for other over the head lifts, and sets the bar for some both arm and leg lifts.

The squat is the easiest lift in terms of technique. They can be done in either the front or back, but the goal is to lower the bar until your legs are at a ninety degree angle, and then stand back up. This helps make your legs so much stronger and help every muscle on the lower half of your body. This sets up all future leg lifting weights and is important because with stronger legs, it will allow you to run faster, jump higher, and be more athletic in general.

Finally the bench press. The most commonly known lift among people. The reason it is important is because most people have either done it or have seen it been done. This lift is when you extend your arms straight up while laying down, and bring the bar down to your chest and then back up. This lift is pretty straight forward as it comes to technique and helps both the arms and the chest. This is important to lifters because it helps set a common weight for all arm exercises, and when people ask if you're a lifter, the first question they will ask is how much you bench. The reason for this because everyone knows about this lift!

These core lifts are important, and help make people stronger and more athletic. I hope this shows more insight on the world of lifting and why it's important, especially these three lifts. Because of these, your whole body benefits, leading to a healthier lifestyle for the future.