Many Roads to One Goal

The fitness field is very intriguing, there are many concepts to help you lose weight, get strong, gain weight, look good etc… Programming such as “block periodization”, linear periodization, concurrent, undulating etc… And if you narrow this down to Olympic weightlifting there is still many paths you can take with a focus on technique: straight pull, S curve, catapult etc… strength: high bar back squat vs. low bar back squat, ratio of squat to the lifts, ratio of front squat to back squat, programming: volume, high intensity, focus on specialized exercises etc…

With that said, as you probably already know, all these points have been fought over and talked about to death. While mainly in the minority, I’ve found the uneducated to speak very loudly and aggressively about how X method is the best and should be THE only method to follow. Despite the many uneducated and inexperienced coaches and/or weightlifters, you’ll actually find that the great coaches use what works for their team and throw out what doesn’t work for their weightlifters. These coaches are not confined to only one method, while they may have solid principles, each year they still add new ideas/methods to their training tool belt.

You also have to keep in mind that each team has to deal with certain pit falls from time constraints, weightlifters adaptability, equipment availability, injury rate, weightlifters past sport and movement experience level, etc… this ALL will play a big role into the annual program for the weightlifters.This is why I believe it’s important for all weightlifters and weightlifting coaches to keep an open mind and discuss their methods before there are any preconceived judgements. We’re all clearly here because we love the sport, but we also need to understand that IF the coach has a valid rationale then you should hear them out, and not stay within your own narrow views.

On a brighter note, here are some cool weightlifting vids!

California Strength at the “Hassle Free Open”

D’Angelo Osorio nearly hitting a 202kg Clean and Jerk:

And check out the new AdiPowers! I believe coming out this summer:

Train smart,

Team Fusion Weightlifting