The USA Weightlifting Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Effective Squat Programs Aug 14, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, we are delving into what is the base of any weightlifting training plan; squat programs. There are many to choose from of course, but tune in to hear the specifics of six squat programs that I’ve done regularly in my career as an athlete and coach with much success. I hope that some of you may give at least a few of them a try. Enjoy the show!

When to Cue-When to Drill Jul 29, 2024

Show notes

In this recording we are talking about when it is most appropriate to give a cue, when it is most appropriate to use a drill, and when and how both might be needed to help change, solidify, or optimize your movement. Enjoy the show!

Jumping To The Side Jul 13, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, we are considering the occurrence of jumping to one side or the other when a lifter receives their snatches and cleans. Is this something that YOU do in your own lifts? Tune in to learn why this might be happening, and what you can do to begin to address it. Enjoy the show!

Observing Nationals Week Jun 28, 2024

Show notes

his week we are recapping and giving our thoughts on Nationals week, which took place recently through mid-June, from a commentator’s perspective. It was a great week and a great meet with lots of good, consistent, and big lifting, and it was a pleasure to take part and now unpack here. Enjoy the show!

Weightlifting Mishaps and Adaptabilty Jun 12, 2024

Show notes

In this recording we are giving some examples of scenarios that may unexpectedly pop up in competition that athletes and coaches will need to adapt to and overcome to have a chance at getting the most out of the day. Tune in to hear our recommendations and a few stories from some of our own experiences. Enjoy the show!

Warming Up with Complexes May 23, 2024

Show notes

This week we are talking about complexes, which are combinations of different variations of a snatch, a clean, or a jerk. Tune in to hear why you might use them in your training, and how you can implement them into your warm ups with purpose. Enjoy the show!
Snatch Specifc Warm Up Complex (empty bar)
2 Rounds
-Round 1 to be done barefoot
1 round = 5 reps each of:
-Snatch Grip Romanian Deadlift(pause briefly above knee)
-Muscle Snatch Strict (standing)
-Power snatch from above knee
-Overhead squat
-Snatch grip sots press (or press behind neck from standing)
Snatch Warm Up Complex (weighed, building to working sets)
-Snatch w/Pause Above Knee + Overhead Squat + Snatch
NOTE: Perform this complex as your first 3-5 warm up sets; pause in bottom of each overhead squat for 5-10 seconds.

Training Partner or No May 09, 2024

Show notes

In this episode we are considering the benefits of having a training partner or training with a group, as well as some benefits to training completely alone. Tune in to hear about our experiences in both settings, and our recommendations on the topic. Enjoy the show!

Observing the Olympic Lifts Apr 28, 2024

Show notes

In today’s recording we talk about how it is easy, especially for a newcomer, to look at a lift and just see general speed or strength, or a made or missed attempt. But, if someone is trying to learn and best understand the Olympic lifts, where should or can they direct their eye when observing a snatch, clean, or a jerk? What should they notice? What is most important? Tune in to hear our suggestions on the topic. Enjoy the show!

Qualifying For The Olympics Apr 15, 2024

Show notes

In this episode we’re excited to announce that the 2024 Olympic Team has been named! Along with stating exactly who you can expect to see on this premier stage, we tell a few stories about our own journeys of chasing the Olympic Dream, and how the processes have changed. Enjoy the show!

It's Supposed To Feel Heavy Apr 09, 2024

Show notes

In today’s recording we are considering how difficult weightlifting is in general on an individual basis. Is it harder for some athletes than others when it comes to technique, training, and ultimately lifting heavy? Do some athletes have to do something extra special to lift heavy and then recover from those efforts whereas for others its just all easy? On this topic we want to provide our perspectives to hopefully limit any negative comparing that could hinder your mindset and limit your progress. Enjoy the show!